What state is breastfeeding illegal in?

Asked by: Hazle Muller III  |  Last update: September 15, 2025
Score: 4.7/5 (41 votes)

All fifty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands have laws that specifically allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location. Thirty-one states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands exempt breastfeeding from public indecency laws.

Is there anywhere you are not allowed to breastfeed?

It's not uncommon to feel uncomfortable about the idea of breastfeeding in public. But you have the right-in most states-to feed your baby anytime, anywhere. There is no national law about breastfeeding in public.

Is it legal to breastfeed in Florida?

According to Florida law, it is your right to breastfeed your baby wherever you are authorized to be. Breastfeeding is a normal part of being a mother.

Is it illegal to breastfeed in Texas?

Breastfeeding in Public

Texas Health and Safety Code Chapter 165 states a mother can breastfeed or express breast milk for her baby anywhere she is otherwise allowed to be.

What was the last state to make breastfeeding in public legal?

Since then, every state has passed a law giving women the right to breastfeed in public, in some way or another. The last states to legalize breastfeeding in public were Idaho and Utah, and not until 2018.

Breastfeeding laws & regulations

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What states do not allow breastfeeding?

All fifty states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands have laws that specifically allow women to breastfeed in any public or private location.

Is it illegal to breastfeed in a moving car?

As a mom, I understand the need to make certain that our children are fed in a timely fashion particularly when they are babies. But, for the saftey of your baby, your baby needs to be in his or her carseat. That is the law. As such, it is not legal to breastfeed your child while driving around.

Is it illegal to breastfeed in public in California?

CIV §43.3 gives women the right to breastfeed their child in a public place. This protection is needed since women breastfeeding in a public place may be asked to stop, leave or cover up, causing embarrassment and stigmatization. Embarrassment remains a barrier to breastfeeding.

Why is breast milk illegal?

Sellers may face criminal liability under federal and state laws if they know they have certain communicable diseases that are transmitted through breast milk, such as human immunodeficiency virus, tuberculosis, and syphilis, and nevertheless sell their milk to unknowing buyers.

Can a woman breastfeed in a restaurant?

You are legally allowed to breastfeed your baby in public. That might be a café, shop, library or on public transport (basically any business that provides a service to the public). The Equality Act states that it is sex discrimination to treat a woman unfavourably if she is breastfeeding.

What are the breastfeeding laws in Ohio?

Section 3781.55 | Breast-feeding in places of public accommodation. A mother is entitled to breast-feed her baby in any location of a place of public accommodation wherein the mother otherwise is permitted.

Can you breastfeed your grandchild?

The reactions were swift and mixed – some people were shocked, thinking it is physically impossible, while others found the idea distasteful. But the fact is, grandmothers can breastfeed their grandchildren. If they have previously breastfed, this is known as relactation.

What are the breastfeeding laws in Massachusetts?

Section 221: Breastfeeding in a public place

Section 221. (a) A mother may breastfeed her child in any public place or establishment or place which is open to and accepts or solicits the patronage of the general public and where the mother and her child may otherwise lawfully be present.

What is the age limit for breastfeeding?

The World Health Organization recommends that all babies be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after 6 months while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond. Stopping breastfeeding is called weaning. It is up to you and your baby to decide when the time is right.

Can you breastfeed in public in Italy?

In Italy, there is no law against public breastfeeding, but reactions to it vary in different communities. Some people regard it as embarrassing or taboo and this can lead mothers avoiding breastfeeding while in public places.

What are the breastfeeding laws in Tennessee?

Tennessee has laws in place to support and protect breastfeeding families: TCA 68-58-101: A mother may breastfeed in any public or private place she is authorized to be. TCA 68-58-102: Breastfeeding shall not be considered public indecency or nudity, obscene, or sexual conduct.

How can I breastfeed my boyfriend but not pregnant?

Inducing lactation in people who aren't pregnant requires medication that mimics hormones your body makes during pregnancy. Suckling from the nipple can initiate lactation, either with a breast pump or by a baby.

Can husband drink milk of wife in Islam?

As such, in general, there is nothing Islamically wrong in fondling with the wife's breasts. This also includes sucking on the breasts with the mouth. However, one must remember that it is totally unlawful (haram) and a sin for the husband to intentionally drink milk from his wife's breast.

What state can you not breastfeed?

Moms can legally breastfeed in public in every state, including Texas. Federal and state laws ensure employers support a woman's right to pump her breastmilk at work. Moms also have rights when it comes to child care settings, breastfeeding supplies and support, and airline travel.

What is the world's average age for breastfeeding?

Globally—excluding the United States, Western Europe, and Australia—43 percent of infants at 6 months are exclusively breastfed; 74 percent of infants are breastfed at 12 months; and 46 percent are breastfed at 2 years8.

Can I breastfeed in the car?

Do not feed your baby in a moving vehicle. Some mothers are tempted to unbuckle themselves and lean into the carseat to nurse while the driver keeps going. This is not safe. Planning for extra nursing breaks can help reduce the stress of arriving on time.

Can my grandma breastfeed me?

It is a common practice in many cultures for a grandmother to relactate so that she may breastfeed her grandchild. It is truly an act of love. A lot of people seem to be curious about how this is possible. Breastmilk production is all about supply and demand.

Can you breastfeed in church?

If a mother is happy to feed in a public area, then she should be made to feel comfortable to continue. An appropriately placed chair can be offered for her comfort and convenience.

Is it rude to breastfeed in public?

breastfeeding may not be considered a nuisance, indecent exposure, sexual conduct or obscenity” (Dept. of Health, 2007). This means that you are free to nurse when and where you choose, and whenever your baby is hungry.