Duckworth, Tillis Aim to Protect Breastfeeding Services During National Disasters
U.S. Sens. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., and Thom Tillis, R-N.C., recently introduced legislation to ensure that equipment is available to support breastfeeding for infants during natural disasters and other times of crisis.
The Delivering Essentials to Mothers Amid Natural Disasters Act aims to ensure that equipment such as breastfeeding pumps and lactation support services are included as eligible expenses for emergency assistance under the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“It’s a scary and vulnerable time for many families, but for a breastfeeding mom it can mean a loss of critical breastfeeding equipment that needs to be quickly replaced, as well as a disruption of feeding routines and a need for support,” said Rep. Lauren Underwood, D-Ill., during a recent press conference held in Chicago, Illinois.
A version of the act, H.R. 6555, was also introduced in the House by Underwood and Rep. John Katko, R-N.Y.
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