Life in Brooklyn can be hard enough as a new mom, especially if you happen to need public assistance, or healthcare support from the government. Often, toting your babe around in these institutions can be cumbersome, perhaps leading some breastfeeding moms to feel defeated. Here’s some good news: as of July 1st of 2017, things out in certain public locations for nursing moms will be different, for the better. City Council has passed a bill requiring breastfeeding centers in New York City at many public spaces. The bill is called 1063-A and it’s a major step in the right direction for humanity in our town. The existence of these rooms in various municipal buildings will not impede upon anyone’s right to also breastfeed in public, thank goodness!
Some of the places that are on the list include: medical assistance program centers of the Department of Social Services/Human Resources Administration, every city-owned borough office of the Administration for Children’s Services, and every health center operated or maintained by the Department of Health And Mental Hygiene (DOHMH), SNAP centers.
“As working and stay-at-home mothers transition into their new roles, it is often a challenge to identify safe spaces where women can nurse and pump to care for their child(ren). This legislation will transform certain public spaces into safe havens to support the bonding experience between mother and child while promoting their well-being,” said Council Member Laurie Cumbo. This is welcome news for moms who need to be in these places while still providing their babies with the vital nutrition and love that breastfeeding offers.