Oregon House Passes Bill Protecting Breastfeeding Rights for Farmworkers

Salem, Oregon- The Oregon House of Representatives has unanimously passed HB 2541, a bill ensuring that agricultural workers have the right to breaks and a private space to express breast milk. The legislation, approved with bipartisan support, aims to close a loophole that previously excluded farmworkers from workplace lactation protections.

The original law, passed in 2019 and signed by Governor Kate Brown, provided similar protections to many workers but did not explicitly cover those in the agricultural sector. HB 2541 addresses that gap, extending the same rights to farmworkers.

“Extending these protections promotes a healthier work environment, benefiting families, employers, and the agricultural sector,” said Representative Andrea Valderrama (D–Outer East Portland). “This is an issue of equity, justice, and the health of mother and child.”

Representative Dacia Grayber (D–SW Portland and E Beaverton) emphasized the importance of the measure, stating, “The right of a mother to express breast milk for their child is not only a basic workplace protection, it’s a basic moral value. This bill closes a loophole in our law for agriculture workers that are not covered by this protection—and I am committed to bolstering similar protections for parents everywhere.”

Studies indicate that workers with these protections are 2.3 times more likely to exclusively breastfeed at six months and 1.5 times more likely to continue each month compared to those without access. Breastfed children generally experience stronger immune systems, fewer illnesses, and lower healthcare costs. Additionally, workplace lactation accommodations can help mothers avoid health complications such as clogged milk ducts or mastitis.

“Every worker deserves the basic right to care for their child’s well-being without fear of losing their job,” said Representative Hoa Nguyen (D–East Portland and Damascus). “This bill corrects an oversight and ensures that farmworkers—who are essential to our economy and putting food on our tables—have the same protections as other workers when it comes to taking breaks and expressing milk. This is a simple step toward fairness, supporting both working parents and the health of their children.”

The bill now moves to the Oregon Senate for consideration.