Access to Donor Milk Act of 2023
The proposed legislation would amend the Child Nutrition Act of 1966 to include provisions for donor human milk, facilitating its collection, storage, and distribution. The bill emphasizes the importance of maintaining safety standards set by the Food and Drug Administration and underscores the need for public awareness about the health benefits of donor human milk. With an authorized appropriation of $3 million for fiscal year 2024 and potential future funding, the bill is positioned to substantially increase the operational capacity of nonprofit donor human milk banks.
House Bill 5486, titled the Access to Donor Milk Act of 2023, aims to enhance access to pasteurized donor human milk, especially for infants in need. The bill seeks to support donor human milk banks by providing competitive grants for expanding operations and ensuring that high-risk infants receive adequate nutrition. This is particularly significant amidst increasing demand for donor milk, as many families may require alternatives to breastfeeding due to various health concerns or circumstances.
One notable point of contention surrounding HB 5486 may arise from its funding allocations and the role of federal versus state regulation in overseeing donor human milk banks. While advocates argue that federal support is essential for enhancing access to safe and reliable sources of human milk, critics could raise concerns about the implications of federal standards and grant distributions on local practices. The balance of ensuring access while maintaining safety standards will be a critical aspect of discussions as the bill moves forward.