Federal Legislation to Protect Breastfeeding Travelers

Airports are just one of many public places where breastfeeding people face challenges. However, there is federal legislation that protects breastfeeding air travelers. 

Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Act The BABES Act requires the Transportation Security Administration to provide ongoing training to ensure its officers consistently enforce TSA Special Procedures related to breast milk, formula, and infant feeding equipment. This legislation was signed into law in 2016.
Friendly Airports for Mothers (FAM) Act The FAM Act requires all large and medium hub airports to provide a private, non-bathroom lactation space in each terminal building.* The Act also requires airports to provide a baby changing table in one men's and one women's restroom in each terminal. This legislation was signed into law in 2018 and the requirements go into effect in 2021.
Friendly Airports for Mothers (FAM) Improvement Act New! The FAM Improvement Act extends the FAM Act's requirements to small hub airports. This legislation was signed into law in 2020 and the requirements go into effect in 2023.

*The lactation space must be accessible to persons with disabilities, available in each terminal building after the security checkpoint, and include a place to sit, a table or other flat surface, and an electrical outlet. The bill also makes grants available to airports to help them make these critical renovations. 

Helpful Links for Breastfeeding Travelers

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Travel Recommendations for Nursing Families"
• Transportation Security Administration: "Traveling with Children"

Congressional History & Advocacy Efforts

USBC, the breastfeeding field, and members of Congress have worked to address barriers to breastfeeding success in airports.