House Committee advances BABES Act to streamline airport travel for breastfeeding parents

New legislation aimed at easing travel for parents with infants received strong support during a recent markup session of the U.S. House Committee on Homeland Security. The Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening Enhancement Act, known as the BABES Act, was introduced to address the challenges faced by traveling parents, particularly those transporting breast milk and pumping equipment.

Currently, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations classify breast milk and related items as medically necessary liquids. However, parents often encounter inconsistent screening processes that can lead to delays and mishandling of these essential items. The BABES Act seeks to require the TSA to update its guidance to minimize the risk of contamination during screenings and to improve training for TSA agents. This change aims to create a smoother travel experience for parents, especially working mothers who may need to pump while away from their children.

Committee members expressed their personal experiences with the TSA screening process, highlighting the need for better training and consistency among agents. They noted that the current system can lead to confusion and unnecessary delays, not only for parents but for all travelers. The proposed legislation is seen as a bipartisan effort to enhance airport efficiency and support families.

The committee unanimously voted to report the BABES Act to the House with a favorable recommendation, signaling a significant step toward improving travel conditions for parents across the nation. As the bill moves forward, it is expected to foster a more accommodating environment for families navigating airport security.