Minnesota

Legal Protections for Breastfeeding

Right to Breastfeed in Public
Minnesota law explicitly allows mothers to breastfeed in any public or private location where they are authorized to be. This includes public spaces like parks, stores, and restaurants. Breastfeeding in public is not considered indecent exposure under Minnesota law.

Jury Duty Exemptions
Minnesota does not have a specific exemption from jury duty for breastfeeding mothers. Individuals seeking exemption may need to request a deferral or consult with the court regarding their circumstances.

Workplace Protections for Breastfeeding

Break Time and Private Space

Under both federal and Minnesota state law, employers are required to provide

• Reasonable break time for employees to express breast milk.
• A private, non-bathroom space that is clean, secure, shielded from view, and free from intrusion, with access to an electrical outlet. Learn more

These protections apply regardless of the child's age, and employers cannot reduce an employee's compensation for time used to express milk.

Support for Breastfeeding Families

Minnesota WIC Program
The Minnesota Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers extensive breastfeeding support, including:
Access to lactation consultants and peer counselors.
Breastfeeding classes and educational resources.
Peer counseling programs, which have positively impacted breastfeeding rates, especially in rural communities. Learn more

Lactation Support Centers
Minnesota has several lactation support centers providing in-person and virtual consultations. They offer support for all breastfeeding families, promoting and supporting lactation.

Hospital-Based Lactation Services
Many hospitals in Minnesota provide lactation support services.

Breastfeeding in Rural and Remote Communities
Telehealth and Mobile Support
To assist mothers in remote areas, telehealth lactation consultations are available. Organizations like the Minnesota Breastfeeding Coalition work to improve families' access to adequate breastfeeding services across the state.

Local Resources and Peer Support
Local WIC offices and community organizations provide peer counseling and support groups, fostering a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers across Minnesota. Resources can be found through Help Me Connect.

Education and Awareness
Online Classes and Training
Minnesota offers various online breastfeeding classes accessible anytime, allowing parents to learn at their own pace. For example:

• Amma Parenting Center provides self-paced online courses with immediate access for one year. Learn more

Additionally, the Minnesota Department of Health provides training for healthcare providers to better support breastfeeding families.

These laws and programs aim to support breastfeeding parents in Minnesota, ensuring they have the necessary resources and protections to successfully breastfeed their children.