Credit: AFP Photo / Mads Nissen
According to breastfeedinglaw.com (great resource, btw), in the state of Missouri mothers can legally breastfeeding in public:
“Breast-feeding in public permitted.
191.918. Notwithstanding any other provision of law to the contrary, a mother may, with as much discretion as possible, breast-feed her child in any public or private location where the mother is otherwise authorized to be.
(L. 1999 S.B. 8 & 173 § 6)
Missouri is now attempting to add additional legal protection for breastfeeding mothers.
A new breastfeeding bill was proposed after a mother was held in contempt of court for bringing her breastfed child to jury selection.
The Missouri House of Representatives has unanimously approved the measure, and it has now moved to the Senate for consideration.
Missouri House Bill No. 1320 will give nursing mothers statewide protection against what the state considers sexual conduct and indecent exposure.
The measure also excuses breastfeeding mothers from jury duty by submitting a doctor’s note.
“It puts forward the importance of women nurturing and nursing their children,” co-sponsor of the bill, Jill Schupp (D), told KRCG News. “It allows that to take precedence over the also important responsibility of serving on a jury.” Then she added, “I think people know the value and importance of being able to nurse your child – those health values and those connections. I think the public is absolutely ready for this.”
The legislation is also sponsored by Democrat Rory Ellinger, of University City. Ellinger was recently diagnosed with liver cancer and could not attend the recent House debate. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.
