Employment; employers required to provide location and break time for employees to express breast milk

HB 290, the "Nursing Mother's Act," requires Alabama employers with more than 50 employees to provide reasonable unpaid break time (up to one year after childbirth) for employees to express breast milk, allowing breaks to align with existing break times when possible. It also mandates employers to offer a private, non-bathroom space near the work area for this purpose, without requiring new construction. The law prohibits discrimination against employees using these provisions and exempts employers from providing breaks if it creates an undue hardship on operations. This bill directly affects breastfeeding employees and larger employers across Alabama, effective October 1, 2026.