Assembly passes Sen. Mack and Rep. Henries’ lactation counselors’ legislation

State House – The General Assembly today passed legislation sponsored by Sen. Tiara Mack and Rep. Brianna E. Henries that specifies the requirements and procedures for licensing lactation counselors.

“Lactation counselors provide a crucial service to newborns and their parents and we must ensure that we have a qualified workforce to meet the needs of families in our state on their breastfeeding journeys. This bill will ensure that families in our state are receiving the care they need by professionals that fit their needs and it will bridge the gap in lactation services felt by the most vulnerable families,” said Senator Mack (D-Dist. 6, Providence).

“Lactation issues can arise at anytime after birth and it is vital that families experiencing these problems receive the care that they need from a knowledgeable and licensed individual. This bill will protect the health and safety of the baby and parents, which is only thing that matters,” said Representative Henries (D-Dist. 64, East Providence).

The legislation (2024-S 2379A, 2024-H 7882A) defines a lactation counselor as an individual who holds current certification from the Academy of Lactation Policy and Practice as a certified lactation counselor (CLC) or an advanced lactation consultant (ALC) after demonstrating appropriate education and competency and passing a criterion-referenced examination.

The bills outline the qualifications and requirements needed to be a licensed lactation counselor in Rhode Island, as well as the processes for license application and renewal.

The legislation now heads to the governor for consideration.