Arkansas moms get a boost with new breastfeeding law and guide
LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — Arkansas is making strides in maternal health with the introduction of Act 627, a new law that mandates coverage for breastfeeding and lactation consultant services.
Championed by Rep. Ashley Hudson and a bipartisan group of women legislators, the law ensures that all health benefit plans, including private insurance and Medicaid, provide access to lactation consultant services, even via telehealth.
This means whether a mom is in Little Rock or a rural area, she will have expanded access to these vital services starting Jan. 1, 2026.
In line with this, Arkansans for Improving Maternal Health (AIM) has updated its breastfeeding guide to reflect the new law.
Ashley Bearden Campbell, AIM's executive director, explained that the guide includes information on workplace rights, obtaining a breast pump, and talking to health providers about resources.
It also highlights Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders' new "infinite work policy," allowing eligible state employees to bring their baby to work for up to six months to promote bonding and breastfeeding.
Campbell emphasized the importance of supporting breastfeeding policies, noting, "Breastfeeding is a completely normal part of motherhood, and it should be supported everywhere that a mother is allowed to be, which is everywhere."
She encouraged moms to visit AIM's website for resources and to attend their upcoming maternal health storytelling event on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at The Rep, sponsored by The Yarn.
The event will feature personal stories from moms and expert roundtable discussions, offering a comprehensive look at maternal health topics.