Breast milk is the best food for babies during their first year of life. Although more than three-quarters of birthing people report breastfeeding at hospital discharge, there remains a racial disparity (Whites 76.3% vs. Blacks 64.6%).

Infants who are breastfed have a reduced risk of asthma, type 2 diabetes, obesity, ear infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). The risk of developing type 2 diabetes and ovarian and breast cancer is reduced for breastfeeding mothers.

In 2010, the Fair Labor Standard Act was amended by adding the Break Time for Nursing Mothers Provision. With this provision, employers are required to provide a reasonable break time and a place for employees to express milk. There is still a need to work with businesses to establish policies and enhance their lactation accommodations.