Massachusetts

Breastfeeding in Massachusetts

Breastfeeding in Massachusetts is supported by a range of laws, programs, and resources designed to ensure that parents can breastfeed their infants safely and comfortably, whether at home or in public.

Legal Protections for Breastfeeding
Right to Breastfeed in Public
Under Massachusetts General Law Chapter 111, Section 221, a mother may breastfeed her child in any public or private location where she is otherwise allowed to be. This state law protects breastfeeding in public and ensures that women cannot be asked to cover up or leave. Learn more

Jury Duty Exemptions
Massachusetts does not provide a specific exemption from jury duty for breastfeeding mothers. However, individuals may request a deferral or disqualification for hardship. Each court evaluates such requests on a case-by-case basis.

Workplace Protections for Breastfeeding

Break Time and Private Space
Massachusetts aligns with the federal PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act (2022) and Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), requiring employers to:

• Provide reasonable break time for an employee to express breast milk for one year after the birth of a child.
• Offer a private, non-bathroom space, shielded from view and intrusion.

These requirements apply to most employers, and Massachusetts further encourages employer policies that support breastfeeding at work.

Support for Breastfeeding Families
Massachusetts WIC Program
The Massachusetts WIC program offers robust breastfeeding support services, including access to lactation consultants and trained peer counselors, breastfeeding classes, videos, written resources, breastfeeding support kits, and pumps for eligible participants. Learn more

Lactation Support Centers
Massachusetts is home to several lactation centers. These facilities offer care from International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) during and after hospital stays.

Breastfeeding in Rural and Remote Communities

Telehealth and Mobile Support
To reach families in rural areas, Massachusetts WIC and hospitals increasingly offer tele-lactation support. Services like:

• Pacify app (for some WIC clients) Learn more
• Lactation telehealth services through hospital networks

These services are often covered by MassHealth or private insurance.

Local Resources and Peer Support

Local health departments, WIC clinics, and community health centers offer

• Peer counseling
• Breastfeeding support groups
• Local La Leche League meetings across the state

Education and Awareness

Online Classes and Training

The Massachusetts WIC program provides

On-demand online breastfeeding classes for parents
Breastfeeding education videos
Training for healthcare providers via the Massachusetts Breastfeeding Coalition

These protections and resources make Massachusetts a supportive environment for breastfeeding families, ensuring access to legal protections, workplace accommodations, healthcare guidance, and community support.