Breast-feeding laws are supported in Bollinger County

Allowing women to express breast milk in the workplace is a federal law. Women must be provided a shielded, private area that is free from intrusion for one year after a child's birth. This law has been in effect since 2010.

"Businesses could be fined up to $5,000 if they don't follow the law," said Blair Reagan, breast-feeding peer counselor. Reagan said that she has only had one violation incident in the two years that she has worked at the center. "We had to write them a certified letter." After the letter was sent, the business complied.

In Bollinger County, 18 businesses have signed contracts stating that their establishments would follow the Missouri guidelines. Pink and purple signs are sprinkled around the county that read, "Breast-feeding Friendly Worksite."

Earlier in August, the Bollinger County Health Center hosted its annual breast-feeding event, titled "Wild about breast feeding." More than 60 women and children attended the event that was held in Twin City Park in Marble Hill.

"I try to get everything as a donation," said Katie Kasten, nutritionist and health educator with the health center. Kasten and Reagan said that they threw the event with donations from sponsors, and they had no expenses.

The guests were served pizza, muffins, snow cones, cotton candy and lots of prizes. Many companies donated to the cause to make for an educational and entertaining gathering.

Danielle Harvey was the special guest speaker. She spoke about the benefits of essential oils and their uses for mothers.

The health center also lends out breast pumps at no cost to women. "If the pump is damaged or not returned, they have to reimburse us," said Reagan. "Women don't have to be just from Bollinger County to receive these services," said Kasten. "We will serve women from all over."

To read more about the laws that govern break time for nursing mothers, visit the United States Department of Labor, under Section 7(r) of the Fair Labor Standards Act.

For more information regarding breast-feeding, WIC, vaccinations, senior health concerns and other health issues, contact the Bollinger County Health Center at (573) 238-2817.