Rights for Breastfeeding Mothers

In general, employers must provide reasonable breaks to nursing mothers to express milk, subject to some exceptions. California Labor Code §§1030-1033. On January 1, 2020, SB 142 went into effect, boosting the rights of breastfeeding mothers in the workplace. In addition to providing a place for a nursing mother to express milk, employers must now ensure that the space for lactation:

• Is clean and free of hazardous materials;
• Has running water and access to a refrigerator (subject to exceptions);
• Must have a clean surface on which women can place a breast pump, and must have an electrical outlet and a place to sit; and
• The room must be free of any possible intrusion, with no other uses allowed during lactation.

If you have been denied lactation breaks, or if your employer has not complied with its duties to provide a clean, safe and private area for you to express milk, then we may be able to help. Please contact us so that we can discuss your potential case.