The Lactation Rooms in Courthouses Act mandates that all courthouses in Pennsylvania must provide at least one designated lactation room for individuals needing to express breast milk or nurse. This room must meet specific requirements, including being a hygienic space separate from restrooms, having a minimum size of 80 square feet, and ensuring privacy through locking doors and sound insulation. The act also stipulates that the lactation room must be accessible in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and must include essential amenities such as a chair, table, electrical outlets, and a waste receptacle.
Additionally, the act emphasizes the importance of breastfeeding as a fundamental nurturing act and aligns with existing federal and state laws regarding accommodations for nursing mothers. It requires that notices regarding the location and access to the lactation room be posted in visible areas within the courthouse. The act will take effect six months after its passage, ensuring that courthouses are equipped to support the needs of nursing parents in a respectful and accommodating manner.