Texas

Breastfeeding in Texas is supported by various laws, programs, and resources designed to ensure that parents can breastfeed their infants safely and comfortably, whether at home, in public, or at work.

Legal Protections for Breastfeeding
Right to Breastfeed in Public: In Texas, mothers have the legal right to breastfeed or express breast milk in any public or private location where they are authorized to be. This is established under the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 165.002, which states: "A mother is entitled to breast-feed her baby or express breast milk in any location in which the mother's presence is otherwise authorized." Learn more

Jury Duty Exemptions: Texas law does not provide 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 the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), most nursing employees are entitled to reasonable break time and a private, non-bathroom space to express breast milk during the workday, for up to one year after the child's birth. The Providing Urgent Maternal Protections (PUMP) for Nursing Mothers Act of 2022 further reinforces these rights, requiring employers to provide:
Reasonable break time to express breast milk and a private space, other than a bathroom, shielded from view and free from intrusion. Learn More
Texas employers are expected to comply with these federal requirements to support breastfeeding employees.

Support for Breastfeeding Families

Texas WIC Program: The Texas Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program offers extensive breastfeeding support, including:
Access to lactation consultants and peer counselors.
Breastfeeding classes and educational resources.
A 24/7 lactation support hotline: 855-550-6667. Learn More

Lactation Support Centers: Texas has several lactation support centers providing in-person and virtual consultations. For example, The Lactation Foundation in Houston offers personalized care and evidence-based breastfeeding advice. Learn more

Hospital-Based Lactation Services: Many hospitals in Texas 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 Nest Collaborative offer virtual appointments with IBCLCs, often covered by insurance. Learn More

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 Texas.

Education and Awareness
Online Classes and Training: Texas WIC offers online breastfeeding classes accessible anytime, allowing parents to learn at their own pace . Additionally, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission provides training for healthcare providers to better support breastfeeding families. Learn More

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