House considers Breastfeeding Protection Act; sponsor cites health benefits and public‑accommodation gaps

Representative Fossen moved to uncircle House Bill 196 (Breastfeeding Protection Act) and presented amendment No. 1 on the floor, arguing the change would protect mothers’ ability to breastfeed in places of public accommodation and align state code with common practice elsewhere.

Fossen outlined public‑health benefits — citing the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention on breastfeeding initiation and duration — and described several incidents where women were asked to stop or relocate while breastfeeding (including at a Nordstrom Rack in Farmington and at an aquatic center in St. George). He argued that after‑the‑fact apologies did not remedy the embarrassment or loss of dignity for mothers and urged members to “join the 48 other states” that allow breastfeeding in any public place where a woman is otherwise allowed to be.

On procedure, the House voted to uncircle the bill and make it before the body; Representative Fossen then introduced and spoke to Amendment 1, which would strike language making breastfeeding unlawful only when a woman’s breast is uncovered. The transcript records floor discussion and the sponsor yielding to questions; the available excerpt does not include a final roll‑call on passage of the bill or the amendment.

Quotes (from the floor): "Both mothers and children benefit from breast milk," Representative Fossen said, citing CDC evidence on reduced infections and long‑term maternal health benefits. "This accommodation requires no infrastructure or site changes and incurs no additional cost to the private business owner," he added in urging support.

Ending: The bill was uncircled and amendment presented and discussed on the floor; the transcript excerpt does not include the final outcome of the amendment or final passage.