Senate committee adopts amendment for breast milk access in schools

The Arkansas Senate Education Committee meeting on February 15, 2023, focused on significant amendments to legislation aimed at supporting breastfeeding mothers in schools. The primary discussion centered around an amendment that would ensure access to private rooms for breastfeeding or expressing milk, as well as the provision of necessary equipment and facilities.

Senator Tucker introduced the amendment, which was supported by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). The amendment specifies that schools must provide a private space, other than a restroom, for mothers to express breast milk. It also mandates access to a power source for breast pumps and allows mothers to bring their pumps to school. The committee discussed the implications of these provisions, emphasizing the importance of creating a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers.

In addition to the breastfeeding provisions, the committee addressed childcare availability in high schools. The legislation encourages schools with on-campus childcare to offer services not only for staff but also for student parents. If childcare is unavailable, schools are tasked with providing information about nearby facilities.

The committee moved to adopt the amendment, which passed with unanimous support. The discussions highlighted the committee's commitment to enhancing support for student parents and promoting breastfeeding in educational settings. The meeting concluded with a call for further questions and a motion to process the bill as amended, reflecting the committee's proactive approach to addressing the needs of families in schools.