North Dakota

Breastfeeding in North Dakota

Breastfeeding in North Dakota 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

North Dakota law permits breastfeeding in any public or private location where the mother is authorized to be. This right is protected under state legislation, ensuring that mothers can breastfeed without facing discrimination or legal consequences. The federal FLSA’s PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act protects all breastfeeding employees, but there are no North Dakota state lactation accommodation laws beyond this.

Workplace Protections

While North Dakota lacks specific state laws mandating workplace accommodations for breastfeeding employees, federal laws provide certain protections. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers are required to provide reasonable break times and a private, non-bathroom space for employees to express breast milk during working hours. Additionally, the Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA) mandates that employers offer reasonable accommodations for employees affected by pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, which may include lactation needs.

N.D. Cent. Code § 23-12-17 (2009) provides that an employer may use the designation “infant friendly” on its promotional materials if the employer adopts specified workplace breastfeeding policies, including scheduling breaks and permitting work patterns that provide time for expression of breast milk; providing a convenient, sanitary, safe and private location other than a restroom for expressing breast milk; and a refrigerator in the workplace for the temporary storage of breast milk. The law also directs the state Department of Health to establish guidelines for employers concerning workplace breastfeeding and infant-friendly designations.

Support for Breastfeeding Families

North Dakota WIC Program

The North Dakota Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant and postpartum mothers, infants, and children. WIC provides breastfeeding education, counseling, and supplies, such as breast pumps, to support breastfeeding mothers. For more information, visit the North Dakota WIC Program website.

Lactation Support Services

Several healthcare facilities in North Dakota offer lactation support services to assist mothers with breastfeeding. Hospitals and clinics provide access to lactation consultants who offer guidance on breastfeeding techniques, addressing challenges, and ensuring both mother and baby are supported.

Breastfeeding Support in Rural Areas

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by rural parents, North Dakota has implemented initiatives to support breastfeeding in remote communities. Telehealth services, including lactation consultations, are available to connect mothers in rural areas with healthcare professionals. These services help bridge the gap in access to breastfeeding support, ensuring that all mothers, regardless of location, receive the assistance they need.

Education and Awareness
North Dakota offers various 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.