BILL NUMBER: S8652
SPONSOR: CLEARE
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the public buildings law, in relation to signage for and
access to lactation rooms in public buildings
 
PURPOSE OR GENERAL IDEA OF BILL:
To ensure that lactation rooms in public buildings are accessible,
clearly marked, and that a directory of such rooms is available to the
public.
 
SUMMARY OF SPECIFIC PROVISIONS:
Section 1: Amends Section 144 of the public buildings law by revising
the definition of "lactation room" to include specific features such as
a chair, a working surface, nearby access to clean running water, and an
electrical outlet if the building has electricity.
Section 2: Mandates that covered public buildings containing a lactation
room . must have a sign posted in a conspicuous location to notify the
public of the availability of such rooms.
Section 3: Requires the Office of General Services to compile and main-
tain a publicly accessible directory of public buildings with available
lactation rooms. This directory must be posted on the Office's website
and updated every six months.
Section 4: Clarifies that public access to lactation rooms should not
compromise public safety and outlines conditions under which access may
be restricted.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
The availability of lactation rooms in public buildings is crucial for
supporting breastfeeding mothers and ensuring they have a private,
clean, and safe space to breastfeed or express milk. This bill strength-
ens existing laws by enhancing the definition of lactation rooms, ensur-
ing they meet basic standards such as adequate lighting, seating, and
access to water and electricity. Furthermore, the requirement for clear
signage will help mothers easily locate these rooms, thereby reducing
stress and encouraging the use of these facilities.
The directory provision ensures transparency and accessibility by making
it easy for the public to identify buildings that offer lactation rooms.
Regular updates to this directory will keep the information current and
reliable. Importantly, the bill balances public access with safety
concerns by allowing for reasonable restrictions where necessary.
This legislation builds on the existing framework, providing a practical
and straightforward solution to a pressing need for breastfeeding moth-
ers. It aligns with New York State's commitment to promoting public
health and supporting the well-being of families.
 
PRIOR LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
This is a new bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
The fiscal impact is expected to be minimal as it involves updating
existing resources and installing signage rather than extensive new
construction.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:;
This act shall take effect immediately.

Statutes affected:
S8652: 144 public buildings law