MA- Massachusetts breastfeeding bill: not a moment too soon

1-8-2009 Masachusetts:

Following the letter of the law, until last week, a woman breastfeeding in public here in Massachusetts could theoretically be arrested for public indecency. Furthermore, if convicted, she would spend the rest of her life as a registered sex offender. A little crazy, no? Fortunately, the Massachusetts House of Representatives has finally approved a bill that now awaits Governor Patrick’s signature.

Senate bill 2438 not only exempts breastfeeding mothers from the laws prohibiting lewd and indecent behavior, but it goes an essential step further, protecting their right to nurse in public places and any place open to the general public. Anyone who breaks this law would be subject to a civil action with damages up to $500.

Two days after this bill was approved, I was in Boston with my baby and he needed to nurse. Spotting some comfy armchairs in a very quiet, high-end department store, I sat down and started to make myself comfortable. Thanks to the recession and my close proximity to the store’s most expensive designer collections, I thought I had relative privacy. But from thirty feet away, a saleslady paled and came running over to me, muttering “no, no, no.” She was icy but courteous and asked if I wouldn’t be more comfortable in a nice, big fitting room. I supposed I probably would, so I didn’t make a fuss. Besides, the bill isn't actually a law yet.

But this was actually my second run-in over public breastfeeding since my son was born in August; you can read all about my experience on an Amtrak train on my blog. After three children, I’m not easily intimidated, but for a first-time mom trying to get up the gumption to nurse in public, even a disapproving stare can send her running for cover. What a relief that we’ve got the law on our side now, instead of the other way around. ..News Source.. by Sheri Gurock, Boston Babies Examiner