New Hampshire

Legal Protections for Breastfeeding

Right to Breastfeed in Public
New Hampshire law permits mothers to breastfeed in any public location where they are legally allowed to be. Breastfeeding a child is not considered an act of indecent exposure, and restricting or limiting this right is deemed discriminatory.

Workplace Protections
Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act mandates that employers provide reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space for employees to express breast milk during working hours. Effective July 1, 2025, New Hampshire state law requires employers with six or more employees to provide an unpaid 30-minute lactation break for every three hours worked and a private, non-bathroom space for nursing employees.

Support for Breastfeeding Families

New Hampshire Breastfeeding Task Force
This organization promotes breastfeeding through education, advocacy, and community support. They host annual conferences and provide resources for families and healthcare providers.

New Hampshire WIC Program
The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in New Hampshire promotes breastfeeding as the optimal way to feed infants. It offers nutrition education, breastfeeding promotion, and support services, including peer counseling and lactation assistance. Exclusive breastfeeding participants receive enhanced food packages, such as additional fruits, vegetables, and jarred infant meats.

Lactation Support Services
Many healthcare facilities in New Hampshire provide lactation consulting services to assist new mothers with breastfeeding challenges. These services offer guidance on latch techniques, positioning, and overcoming common breastfeeding issues.

Breastfeeding in Rural and Remote Communities

In rural areas, breastfeeding support is accessible through telehealth services and community-based programs. Local organizations and healthcare providers collaborate to offer lactation support, ensuring that mothers in remote regions receive the assistance they need.

Education and Awareness

Breastfeeding Promotion & Support: The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services provides resources and information to promote breastfeeding as the optimal way to feed infants. They offer educational materials and support to families and healthcare providers.

Breastfeeding-Friendly Child Care: The state encourages child care providers to become breastfeeding-friendly by offering training and resources to support breastfeeding families.