Wyoming

Breastfeeding in Wyoming is supported by a variety of legal protections, programs, and resources designed to help parents breastfeed safely and comfortably, whether at home or in public.

Legal Protections for Breastfeeding

Exemptions from Public Indecency Laws and Jury Duty

Wyoming law grants parents the right to breastfeed in any public or private location. There are no restrictions on where a parent can breastfeed, ensuring that breastfeeding mothers in Wyoming are exempt from public indecency laws and jury duty while breastfeeding.

Right to Breastfeed in Public

Wyoming’s breastfeeding laws allow mothers to breastfeed in public places, including restaurants, stores, and public transportation. Wyoming provides specific protections for breastfeeding mothers to help them feel comfortable nursing in public spaces. Learn More

Workplace Protections for Breastfeeding

Under the federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), employers must provide reasonable break times for employees to express breast milk during work hours. Additionally, the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act (PUMP Act) requires employers to provide a private space (other than a bathroom) for pumping breast milk for up to one year after the child’s birth. Wyoming follows these federal requirements, though the state does not have additional laws specifically addressing breastfeeding at work.

Support for Breastfeeding Families

Wyoming Breastfeeding Coalition (WBC)

The Wyoming Breastfeeding Coalition (WBC) is a nonprofit organization that works to promote and support breastfeeding in the state. The coalition provides resources, education, and advocacy to help families overcome barriers to breastfeeding, especially in rural and underserved areas. The coalition also offers outreach to increase breastfeeding awareness and education across the state.

WIC Program

The Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program in Wyoming offers nutrition assistance to low-income pregnant and postpartum mothers, infants, and children. WIC provides breastfeeding education, counseling, and resources, including breast pumps, to support mothers in their breastfeeding journey. Visit WIC Nutrition & Breastfeeding Information for more information about the services available.

Lactation Support and Consultants

Many hospitals and clinics in Wyoming offer lactation consultant services to help new mothers with breastfeeding challenges. These consultants provide one-on-one support, assist with latch and positioning, and help solve common breastfeeding issues. To find a lactation consultant around you, click here or here

Breastfeeding in Rural and Remote Communities

Telehealth and Mobile Support

Given the rural nature of much of Wyoming, breastfeeding support is also available through telehealth services. This allows breastfeeding mothers in remote areas to access lactation support and guidance without having to travel long distances. Through programs like the Wyoming Telehealth Network, healthcare providers can offer virtual consultations and advice to mothers in rural communities.

Local Resources and Peer Support

Many rural and Indigenous communities in Wyoming have local breastfeeding support groups or peer counseling programs to create a supportive environment for new mothers. These groups help mothers connect with one another and share breastfeeding experiences. Culturally relevant resources are also provided by community-based organizations to assist families in remote areas.

Education and Awareness
Wyoming provides numerous educational programs to help new parents with breastfeeding. These include hospital-based lactation classes, peer counselor programs, and educational materials available through local clinics and online resources. These initiatives help prepare parents for breastfeeding and provide ongoing support throughout their breastfeeding journey.

Wyoming’s efforts aim to create a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers by providing access to essential resources, education, and legal protections to help them succeed in their breastfeeding journey.