Governor Schwarzenegger, didn’t you get my letter? What a disappointment. The governor has just vetoed two breastfeeding bills that would have done so much to support breastfeeding in California.
In response to AB 513, which would have provided HMO and MediCal health insurance coverage for lactation consultations, Governor Schwarzenegger says that paying for a visit to a Lactation Consultant would increase the overall cost of health care (see his full response here). Apparently, he didn’t get the message that breastfeeding reduces health care costs. Just three months of exclusive breastfeeding has been found to save $475 in the first year of life, due to reduced illnesses, fewer doctor visits and hospitalizations. Paying for a single lactation consultation is far cheaper.
The second bill, SB 257, would have helped make lactation accommodations available to breastfeeding employees. California law already requires accommodations for lactation, but many women, as well as employers, aren’t aware of this. In my role as a lactation educator, I talk to new moms every day who think they have to use formula since they will be returning to work. This bill would require state department employers to notify employees going on maternity leave of their right to breastfeeding accommodations upon their return to the workplace. Despite the minimal cost and effort required, the Governor feels that this measure is unnecessary (see his full response here).
California WIC Association and the California Breastfeeding Coalition are urging breastfeeding advocates to send letters to the media to express disapproval of the Governor’s action. If you live in California and you support breastfeeding, please take a look at this sample letter that you can personalize and send.
My Related Posts:
Health Insurance Coverage for Lactation Support: My Letter to the Governor
yes, this is disappointing! I can see how this bill would reduce health care costs, since breastfeeding keeps babies healthier. Keep up the good work, Christina.