Purpose and Declaration of Policy

The purpose and policy of this Chapter is to ensure that women have a right to breastfeed children or express breast milk in a safe and clean environment or private designated area without the fear of social constraints, discrimination, embarrassment, or even prosecution. It is nationally recommended that babies from birth to at least one (1) year of age be breastfed unless medically contraindicated, in order for babies to attain an optimal healthy start in life. Breastfeeding can also be considered a low-cost means of improving health for both mothers and babies, and education, awareness, encouragement, promotion and acceptance of breastfeeding is vital as it will provide maternal and infant health benefits and economic benefits.