Bill > H0691

This bill, effective January 1, 2027, aims to promote and support breastfeeding by requiring health insurance plans to cover breastfeeding equipment and support services, such as lactation counseling, without any out-of-pocket costs for the insured, unless it would disqualify a high-deductible health plan from a health savings account. Additionally, it mandates that general hospitals with perinatal units (maternity and newborn services) must adopt an infant-feeding policy that promotes breastfeeding, drawing guidance from the World Health Organization and UNICEF's "Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative" and the Department of Health, while also allowing for formula supplementation or bottle-feeding when medically necessary or preferred by the mother. This policy must be communicated to staff and made accessible to patients, and the Department of Health will provide guidance to hospitals on implementing these policies. The bill also includes findings that highlight the numerous health, economic, and environmental benefits of breastfeeding for both infants and mothers.

Health and Social Services

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.691