Bipartisan legislation aimed at easing air travel for parents carrying breast milk and breastfeeding supplies has passed the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. The Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act was introduced by Senators Mazie K. Hirono, Tammy Duckworth, Steve Daines, and Ted Cruz. It requires the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to update guidance on handling breast milk and related products in consultation with maternal health groups.
Senator Hirono stated, “The BABES Enhancement Act will require TSA to clarify and regularly update its guidance on handling breast milk and baby formula, helping to ensure that parents and their young children can travel by air with peace of mind.”
The legislation addresses risks associated with mishandled breast milk, which can lead to contamination. It also considers the needs of lactating parents who must pump or breastfeed regularly to avoid health issues such as mastitis.
Key provisions include promoting hygienic handling of infant nutrition products, consulting with maternal health organizations for guidance updates every five years, and directing an independent audit of TSA compliance with screening policies.
Senator Hirono has been a consistent advocate for this cause, having reintroduced the BABES Enhancement Act in May 2023. She also urged TSA in June 2022 to address inconsistencies in implementing travel policies for breast milk at airport checkpoints.
