Senate Bill No. 1030 aims to enhance breastfeeding rights in the workplace by mandating that employers provide reasonable break time for employees to express breast milk or breastfeed their nursing children whenever needed, rather than only during designated meal or break periods as previously allowed. This change aligns Connecticut's law with federal standards set by the Pump for Nursing Mothers Act included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. The bill also maintains existing requirements for employers to make reasonable efforts to provide a private space for breastfeeding or milk expression, which must be free from intrusion, near a refrigerator or cold storage, and have access to an electrical outlet.

Additionally, the bill prohibits employers from discriminating against or taking adverse actions against employees who exercise their rights under this law. The effective date for these changes is set for October 1, 2025. The bill is expected to have a minimal fiscal impact, potentially generating some revenue from civil penalties if violations occur, although the Labor Department is anticipated to manage any complaints effectively with existing resources.

Statutes affected:
Committee Bill: 31-40w
LAB Joint Favorable: 31-40w
File No. 278: 31-40w