Ayotte Intoduces Legislation to Protect Rights of Parents Traveling with Breast Milk and Formula

Statement

U.S. Senator Kelly Ayotte today introduced the Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening Act, which will better ensure that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) complies with existing guidelines regarding parents traveling with formula, breast milk, juice, or equipment required for breastfeeding.

"By notifying air carriers and the TSA of existing TSA guidelines and requiring appropriate training, this legislation will ensure that common-sense protections are in place so that mothers can carry breast milk, formula, and juice through security screenings," said Senator Ayotte.

Similar legislation has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Jaime Herrera Beutler (R-WA), John Katko (R-NY), and Kathleen Rice (D-NY).

While all airline passengers are allowed to bring a single quart-sized bag of liquids through security checkpoints, TSA has an established exemption for formula, breast milk, and juice. However, problems with compliance and a lack of awareness from TSA agents about existing policy have led to situations where some women have been unfairly required to throw out baby formula or breast milk in order to clear security and board a commercial airplane.

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