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West VirginiaA Child's Right toNurse Act |
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Introduction
"A Child's Right to Nurse Act" states that breastfeeding is an important and basic act of nurture which must be encouraged in the interests of maternal and child health. It will mandate that a woman has the right to breastfeed her child in any location -- public or private --where that child/mother pair has the right to be.
Facts
Breastmilk … it does a baby good. Breastmilk is custom made for each and every child. It is readily available and requires no preparation. Breastfeeding provides significant health benefits to both the mother and child. It protects against: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), ear infections, upper and lower respiratory infections, allergies, intestinal disorders, colds, viruses, staph, strep and e coli infections, diabetes, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, childhood cancers, meningitis, pneumonia, urinary tract infections, salmonella, as well as lifetime protection from Crohn's Disease, ulcerative colitis, some lymphomas, insulin dependent diabetes, and for women, breast and ovarian cancer. By encouraging women to breastfeed, the government could save millions of dollars on the purchase of artificial baby milk for WIC participants and avoid the cost of increased medical expenses for both mother and child. Why Does West Virginia Need Legislation? Would you eat in a bathroom stall? Every mother makes the choice on how to feed her child. Women that choose to bottlefeed aren’t being asked to do so in a bathroom stall. But breastfeeding moms have been, and more instances are being reported every day. Thirty-seven states have enacted breastfeeding legislation, with several others states considering legislation. West Virginia has no laws regarding breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is a private, tender act, not for public display, but must occasionally be done in a public setting. Babies need to be breastfed on demand, and mothers should not feel ashamed to breastfeed when necessary or be pressured to use bottles when in public. Legislation will help encourage more women to breastfeed and to feel comfortable with their choice, while protecting their right to do so. For More Information
CLICK HERE to see H.B. 2450.
CLICK HERE to e-mail us to learn more about this Legislation.
Visit the following for information regarding Breastfeeding Legislation in other states.
La Leche League http://www.lalecheleague.org/LawMain.html
What Can You Do? Help support this legislation by CLICKING HERE. Write or call your local legislators. CLICK HERE for contact information. Organizational Support The following organizations have endorsed this legislation.
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