Know Your Rights: Workplace Breastfeeding Laws by State in the U.S.

Category: Breastfeeding Support | Insurance Breast Pumps | Resources for Working Moms

Returning to work after having a baby comes with a long checklist—but breastfeeding shouldn’t be one of your worries. Thanks to federal laws and individual state protections, working moms in the U.S. have the right to pump breast milk during the workday. But laws can vary from one state to another, and knowing your rights matters.

As a trusted medical supply store supporting mothers across the U.S., Nu-Life Medical Equipment & Supplies is here to help. In this guide, we break down state-by-state laws so you know what to expect and how to advocate for yourself.

What Does Federal Law Say About Breastfeeding at Work?

Under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), most employers are required to:

• Provide reasonable break time to express breast milk for one year after a child’s birth
• Offer a private, non-bathroom space for pumping

This law was expanded under the PUMP Act (Providing Urgent Maternal Protections), which now covers millions of additional workers.

Federal References:
FLSA Nursing Mothers: https://www.dol.gov/agencies/whd/nursing-mothers
PUMP Act (H.R. 3110): https://www.congress.gov/bill/117th-congress/house-bill/3110

Workplace Breastfeeding Laws by State

New York

• Employers must provide unpaid break time or allow paid break time to pump.
• Must provide a private room (not a bathroom).
• Applies for up to three years after childbirth.

Reference: https://www.ny.gov/services/breastfeeding-workplace

California

• Break time and a lactation room are required by law.
• Lactation spaces must include a seat, power, and nearby sink.

Reference: https://www.dir.ca.gov/dwc/MedicalUnit/Breast_Feeding_Accommodation.htm

Florida

• No state-specific law, but federal rights apply.
• Breastfeeding is allowed in any public or private location.

Colorado

• Employers must provide break time and private space for up to two years.

Reference: https://cdphe.colorado.gov/breastfeeding-laws

Illinois

• Break time and private space are required.
• Compensation cannot be reduced for pumping.

Reference: https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs3.asp?ActID=2573

Texas

• Follows only federal breastfeeding protections.

Georgia

• Employers must provide paid break time and private space for lactation.
• Law applies to all employers and employees.

Reference: https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/59004

Washington

• Break time, private space, and accommodations are required.
• Space must include access to a fridge and water where possible.

Reference: https://lni.wa.gov/workers-rights/workplace-rights/accommodations/lactation-accommodation

Other Notable States

Tips for Pumping at Work

• Speak with HR before returning to work about your needs.
• Understand your rights under state and federal law.
• Use an insurance-covered hospital-grade or wearable pump.
• Use refrigeration or a cooler for safe milk storage.

Need Help Getting a Breast Pump?

At Nu-Life Medical Equipment & Supplies, we help you get the best breast pump through insurance—fast and stress-free. Whether you’re in New York, California, or any state in between, we’ve got your back.

Visit our medical supply store in Fairport
We work directly with your insurance provider
Fast shipping, no cost to you
Qualify for Your Breast Pump Now

Final Thoughts: You Deserve Support

Breastfeeding at work isn’t always easy—but the law is on your side. Whether you’re in Rochester, Fairport, or beyond, remember this: you have the right to pump, the right to privacy, and the right to care for your baby—even while you work.

If you ever feel unsure, reach out. At Nu-Life, we’re more than a medical supply store—we’re a support system for moms like you.

Tags: Breastfeeding at work, pumping laws by state, working moms, insurance breast pump, medical supply store in Rochester, medical supply store in Fairport