Earth Notes
(2005-05-20)
PORTLAND, OR
(OPB) -
(OPB Radio) - A committee in the Oregon House heard testimony Friday on a bill to require unpaid break time and a private space for breastfeeding mothers. Senate Bill 618 passed the Democratic state Senate, but faces an uphill battle in the Republican House. Martha Johnson, a nurse and lactation expert from Eugene tried to convince an all male House committee to pass the bill.
Martha Johnson: When mom's go back to work, they don't breast feed as long. And the studies show what the barriers are they're not getting the break time and their employers aren't supportive.
The bill is opposed by the business lobbying group Associated Oregon Industries. It argues that rather than requiring break time for nursing mothers, the state should do a better job of encouraging employers to provide it voluntarily.
© Copyright 2012, OPB
