Breastfeeding Resources for Employees
National laws protecting breastfeeding and chestfeeding
The Fair Labor Standards Act is a national law. It gives most lactating workers break time and a private space to pump at work up to one year after their child's birth.
It also requires most employers to provide space for pumping milk. Spaces should be free from intrusion, shielded from view and available as needed. They shouldn't be a bathroom.
The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention answer common questions.
The U.S. Department of Labor has information for workers who are pregnant, have recently given birth, and are lactating.
Minnesota laws
Minnesota has laws that protect pregnant workers and new parents:
- Pregnant workers and new parents (Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry)
- Paid leave beginning in 2026 (Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development)
More resources for employees
Dakota County Public Health has compiled helpful resources for breastfeeding and chestfeeding parents:
- Tips for talking to your employer about pumping at work (WIC)
- More talking tips (Minnesota Department of Health)
- Tips for returning to work or school (Minnesota Department of Health)
- Breastfeeding, or chestfeeding, in general population areas or shelters (Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs)
For more information, contact: