New Law Will Help Parents Traveling With Breast Milk and Formula
There's a new law in place to better help parents traveling with breast milk, formula and pumps through airport security. The Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act is now law, according to Congressman Eric Swalwell. The new law aims to streamline the screening process for breast milk, formula, and feeding equipment like pumps nationwide.
In a news release, Rep. Swalwell said: “I’m thrilled to say that the BABES Act is officially the law of the land. As a husband and father, I know how challenging it can be to fly with a newborn. That’s why this is such an important victory for traveling mothers and families everywhere. With this law now in place, TSA officers will receive the proper training and follow strong, hygienic standards so parents can travel with confidence and babies get the nutrition they need without stress or uncertainty. This is about dignity, peace of mind, and protecting families at one of the most vulnerable moments of parenthood. I’m proud to see this bipartisan bill not only pass Congress but be signed into law for millions of families who deserve better when they travel.”
“This is a hard-won victory for so many moms who have been mistreated by TSA while traveling with breastmilk and the breastfeeding equipment they need to pump and feed their babies,” said Senator Tammy Duckworth, who also worked to pass this bipartisan bill.
This law will make sure that certain standards are in place when parents are traveling with breast milk and formula, including how items like breastmilk are handled and screened nationwide.
You may be wondering what other items, besides formula and breast milk, are included under these new protections. Related products include "ice packs, freezer packs, frozen gel packs, and other accessories required to cool breast milk, baby formula, and juice", according to the bill's summary. As parents, these are all items we know are essential when traveling with breast milk (and trying to keep it cold)!
According to an earlier news release from Congressman Eric Swalwell, this new law will focus on the following:
- Ensure clear and updated guidelines for TSA agents to better screen breastmilk, formula, and feeding equipment (like pumps)
- Ensure TSA agents receive additional and consistent training
- Improve communication with parents about their rights at security checkpoints
- Ensure that guidelines will be reviewed and updated every five years to meet new needs and additional technology
Leave a comment