Have My Workplace Breastfeeding Rights Been Violated? What the PUMP Act Means for You

  • Break Time

    • Reasonable break time each time you need to pump

    • As often as needed by your body—not based on a strict schedule

    • This break may be unpaid, unless your employer already provides paid breaks or you continue working during the pump session

    A Private Space (That’s Not a Bathroom)

    • The space must be shielded from view, free from intrusion, and functional for expressing milk

    • A locked office, converted conference room, or private lactation pod are all acceptable

    • A bathroom does not count, even if it’s private

  • Here are some signs that your PUMP Act rights may be getting violated:

    • You’re told to use a bathroom to pump

    • There is no private space provided for you to pump

    • You’re denied break time or pressured not to take it

    • You’re disciplined, demoted, or treated unfairly for needing to pump

    • Your workplace says you're not eligible because you're salaried or in a certain role

    If any of these are happening, your rights may be getting violated—and you’re not alone. text goes here

If you're a new parent returning to work while breastfeeding or pumping, you might be wondering what your rights are—and whether your employer is following the law. Many working parents don’t realize that federal protections exist to support their right to pump breast milk during the workday. Those rights were recently expanded under a law called the PUMP Act.