Nursing child (photo: Dan Layton)

Mothers in Massachusetts can now breath a collective sigh of relief since the state law went into effect last week on Thursday, April 9th, 2009. The bill was signed back in January by Governor Patrick. The law states:

Section 221. (a) A mother may breastfeed her child in any public place or establishment or place which is open to and accepts or solicits the patronage of the general public and where the mother and her child may otherwise lawfully be present.

Breastfeeding-Friendly Businesses

In addition to having the legal right to nurse her child in public, mothers have choices when it comes to breastfeeding-friendly locations in and around the city. Look for the Breastfeeding Logo at local stores, restaurants and businesses that support and encourage breastfeeding. Here are some stores that welcome mothers nursing their child:

• Boston Medical Center - the only Baby-Friendly certified hospital in Massachusetts this center promotes breastfeeding by following the ten step program set forth by Baby Friendly USA.
• Crunchy Granola Baby - a natural products store located in downtown Salem, runs support groups and classes on breastfeeding, 978-741-0800.
• Mother's and Company - this Boylston store offers a free breastfeeding support group as well as classes by lactation counselors, 508-410-9388.

Where is your favorite breastfeeding-friendly business? Use the comments section and share your knowledge with other local moms and families.