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Breastfeeding laws in the USA

by Janice Sanders

Why is breastfeeding in public an issue? It seems breastfeeding in public has undergone a lot of criticism over the last few years without good reason. Its clear that its not an issue of practicality but of the conscience. There are so many different opinions over this controversial issue but its pretty clear that its because of the breast is related to sexuality which creates an awkwardness to expose it in public. The breast was intended to feed babies and this should be the reason why it is morally sound to feed in public. Breastfeeding moms should know their rights and freedoms to breastfeed their baby in public. Many women have chosen to pump with a medela pump, ameda purely yours breast pump or the avent duo pump because of this social stigma.

For years this issue has been discussed by activists and lawyers in the US. Breastfeeding in public has caused controversy throughout the world as people everywhere discuss the moral implications. Most countries have come to one conclusion; public breastfeeding is normal and natural and should be allowed in public places. Every state has different variations to the law so it is important to know your state to guard your rights. There isnt any state that hinders a woman from feeding her baby in public.

Although the entire country legally agrees that women should be able to breastfeed in public, debate remains over the issue. It angers some and scares others. The bottom line is that some men and women do not agree that public is the appropriate place to feed a baby.

One of the greatest reasons is because of the sexual association with the breast. Many people believe it is because of the overuse of sexual innuendo in advertisements and daily exposure, or covering up of breasts. By keeping the breast covered up and mysterious, it has created an unhealthy attraction that is now associated with lust. Its this very pressure from society that generates an uncomfortable feeling in women so they choose to pump with a medela pump, ameda purely yours breast pump or the avent duo breast.

Every state does provide laws that allow moms to feed their babies in public with the breast. The majority of the states, including the Virgin Islands have laws that aggressively protect a womans right to breastfeed in public or in private. 27 states have found it necessary to exempt breastfeeding from indecent exposure laws.

A same number of states protect women by law when it comes to issues arising in the workplace. There are even states that have deemed it necessary to excuse women who are breastfeeding from jury duty. Still there are others who have aggressively created campaigns to make people more aware of breastfeeding benefits and support public breastfeeding.

There are also many states have the unique laws or language that relate to breast-feeding. Here are just some examples of specific laws by states and Puerto Rico as well:

In Virginia, a breast-feeding mother has the right to do so on any property owned by the state. If you’re visiting Puerto Rico, you should know that all airports, shopping malls, public service or government centers and other locations are required to have designated feeding and diaper changing areas that are not bathrooms.

Maryland has a tax exemption for breastfeeding. Any item that is directly used for initiating, supporting or sustaining breastfeeding is exempt from sales tax.

No one should be embarrassed to breastfeed their baby in public. Research the law in your state to find out more of your rights.

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