Breast Milk Bank Proposed

Got milk?

For those who don’t, one Michigan lawmaker has introduced legislation that calls for a government-regulated non-profit breast milk bank.

State Representative Erika Geiss says a breast milk bank is a place where mothers who are nursing can donate their excess milk.

The Taylor Democrat believes breast milk donated in Michigan should stay in Michigan – where it can be used to feed premature and ill infants – and that this new law is needed to help curb the state’s high infant mortality rate.

Geiss’ bill would also set safety and quality standards for milk donation. She says mothers who smoke or use drugs – whether it’s illegal or a prescription – will not be able to donate.

Geiss says her legislation will hopefully prevent exploitation of mothers on the for-profit side, and put in very clear standards for ensuring the milk that is collected in Michigan makes its way to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

If this bill is successful, Geiss says she would consider a measure regulating, for-profit, internet sales of breast milk.