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Policy Impact Assessment: The “Reasonable Break Time” Provision Of The Patient Protection And Affordable Care Act, Merritt Juliano

21st Century Social Justice

Breastfeeding continues to be the most optimal source of nutrition for infants under 6 months of age, and has been associated with a wide variety of infant and maternal health benefits, including protection against certain illnesses and diseases. Most health organizations recommend exclusive breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months post-birth. Despite these recommendations, breastfeeding women, especially those in lower socioeconomic groups face many challenges in our society. Moreover, maternal employment stands as a significant barrier to successful breastfeeding durations. To counter these problems, Section 4207 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act [ACA] was enacted to offer …