H.R.1646 - Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.1646, the Lactation Spaces for Veteran Moms Act, mandates that each medical center within the Department of Veterans Affairs provide a dedicated lactation space. This space must be hygienic, shielded from view, free from intrusion, accessible to disabled individuals, and equipped with a chair and working surface. The bill aims to support women veterans and members of the public who need to express breast milk.
Expected Effects
The bill's enactment will result in the establishment of lactation spaces in all VA medical centers within two years. This will provide a supportive environment for nursing mothers, promoting their health and well-being. It also sets a standard for accessible and inclusive healthcare facilities.
Potential Benefits
- Supports the health and well-being of women veterans and the public.
- Provides a private and hygienic space for expressing breast milk.
- Ensures accessibility for disabled individuals, including those using wheelchairs.
- Promotes inclusivity and respect for women's health needs within VA facilities.
- May improve the overall experience of women utilizing VA medical services.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with creating and maintaining the lactation spaces.
- Possible space constraints within existing medical centers.
- The bill does not address enforcement mechanisms for ensuring compliance.
- May require additional staff training to manage and maintain the spaces.
- Could lead to debates about resource allocation within the VA system.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the US Constitution, as it aims to promote the health and well-being of veterans and the public. While the Constitution does not explicitly address lactation spaces, the bill can be seen as a reasonable measure to support the health needs of a specific population. It does not infringe upon any specific constitutional rights or freedoms.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).