New York

Breastfeeding in New York

Breastfeeding in New York is supported by a variety 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

Exemptions from Public Indecency Laws and Jury Duty

In New York, parents have the legal right to breastfeed in any public or private location. There are no restrictions on where a parent can breastfeed, and the law ensures that breastfeeding mothers are exempt from public indecency laws and jury duty.

Right to Breastfeed in Public

New York's breastfeeding laws provide specific protections, including the right to breastfeed in places like restaurants, stores, and public transportation. Learn more: New York State Laws on Breastfeeding.

Workplace Protections for Breastfeeding

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), employers are required to provide reasonable break times and a private, non-bathroom space for employees to express breast milk during working hours. While New York does not have specific state-level laws for breastfeeding accommodations at work, the FLSA and PWFA ensure that breastfeeding employees can pump milk during the workday without facing undue hardship.

For more information about workplace rights and protections for breastfeeding employees in New York, you can refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's FLSA guidelines.

Support for Breastfeeding Families

New York State Breastfeeding Coalition (NYSBC)

The NYSBC is a nonprofit organization working to promote and support breastfeeding across the state. The coalition offers resources, education, and advocacy to help families overcome barriers to breastfeeding, including support for diverse communities and rural areas. Visit the New York State Breastfeeding Coalition.

WIC Program

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in New York provides nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant and postpartum mothers, infants, and children. The program offers breastfeeding education, counseling, and supplies, including breast pumps, to support breastfeeding mothers. For more information, visit the New York State WIC Program.

Lactation Support and Consultants

Hospitals and clinics throughout New York provide lactation consultant services to help new mothers with breastfeeding challenges. These consultants offer one-on-one support, advice on latch and positioning, and help with overcoming common breastfeeding issues. You can contact local hospitals or clinics for more details on available services.

Breastfeeding in Rural and Remote Communities

Telehealth and Mobile Support

Given New York’s diversity, including rural and remote areas, breastfeeding support is also available remotely. Telehealth services provide lactation consultations, allowing mothers in rural areas to access guidance and support.

Local Resources and Peer Support

Many rural and underserved communities in New York have local breastfeeding support groups or peer counseling programs. These community-based programs create a supportive environment for new mothers and offer culturally relevant information. The New York State Department of Health provides a directory of local programs.

Education and Awareness

New York offers numerous breastfeeding education programs for new parents, including hospital-based lactation classes, peer counselor programs, and educational materials available at clinics and online. These resources help prepare parents for the challenges of breastfeeding and support them throughout their breastfeeding journey.

To learn more about locations of breastfeeding resources and education programs, visit the New York State Department of Health's Breastfeeding Page.