We are proud to bring you the latest updates from the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee (USBC), an organization committed to promoting breastfeeding and supporting families. Today, we’re excited to share two important initiatives that call for your involvement: urging the President to prioritize babies in the federal budget and highlighting the impact of paid leave on breastfeeding rates.
1. Prioritize Breastfeeding in the President’s Budget
The USBC has recently launched the “Families Need Support: Prioritize Breastfeeding in the President’s Budget” action tool. This tool empowers individuals like you to take a stand and make a difference in the lives of breastfeeding families across the nation.
Why is this action so crucial? Well, every fiscal year, the federal budget process kicks off with the President’s Budget. This initial budget proposal sets the stage for negotiations, shaping the policies and programs that will affect us all. Right now, decisions are being made for the 2025 President’s Budget, making this the perfect time for us to unite and advocate for change.
Specifically, the USBC is calling on the White House to recommend allocating $20 million for the CDC Hospitals Promoting Breastfeeding program. This funding can have a profound impact on breastfeeding support and education across the country.
So, how can you take action? It’s simple. Visit the USBC’s action tool, which allows you to reach out to the President and Vice President directly. Use your voice to urge them to prioritize breastfeeding in the federal budget. Your advocacy can help shape policies that support mothers and babies everywhere. Take action with us today and let’s make a difference together!
2. Paid Leave’s Impact on Breastfeeding Rates
In response to a bipartisan, bicameral Congressional working group’s request for information (RFI) on paid leave, the U.S. Breastfeeding Committee has submitted a comment that sheds light on the profound connection between paid leave and breastfeeding rates.
This submission, developed with input from the Workplace Support Constellation, emphasizes how expanding access to paid leave can benefit breastfeeding, public health, and the economy. It also shares real stories from families, highlighting their experiences with paid leave and how it impacts infant feeding choices.
Furthermore, the USBC’s comment provides invaluable recommendations and considerations for policymakers as they explore ways to provide equitable and comprehensive paid leave policies. This is a crucial step toward supporting families and ensuring that all babies have the opportunity to benefit from breastfeeding.
If you want to delve deeper into the USBC’s insights and recommendations on paid leave, be sure to visit the Letters & Public Comments webpage. Here, you’ll find a wealth of information, including public comments and sign-on letters that further reinforce the importance of paid leave in supporting breastfeeding mothers and families.
Breastfeed Durham News encourages you to get involved, advocate for change, and stand up for breastfeeding rights. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of countless families and future generations. Take action today with the USBC, and let’s prioritize babies in the federal budget while championing the importance of paid leave for all.