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SB 1373

AN ACT REQUIRING THE LICENSURE OF LACTATION CONSULTANTS.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Kai Belton and 2 co-sponsors

Connecticut would require lactation consultants to obtain state licensure, establishing professional standards and regulatory oversight for practitioners providing breastfeeding advice and support services.

HOUSE CALENDAR NUMBER 597
#breastfeeding #consultants #fees #fines(penalties) #occupationallicenses #publichealth #departmentof
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Bill Summary · SB 1373

Legislative bill overview

SB 1373 establishes a state licensure system for lactation consultants in Connecticut, requiring practitioners to meet specific educational and certification standards before providing lactation consulting services. The bill creates regulatory oversight through the state licensing board to ensure professional qualifications and consumer protection in this healthcare field.

Why is this important

Lactation consulting directly affects maternal and infant health outcomes, making service quality a public health concern. Currently, anyone can claim lactation expertise without formal credentials, potentially leaving vulnerable new mothers at risk of receiving inadequate or harmful advice. Licensure creates standardized professional requirements similar to other healthcare practitioners.

Potential points of contention

  • Scope of practice definition: Unclear boundaries between licensed lactation consultants and other healthcare providers (nurses, midwives, pediatricians) could create turf wars or redundant services
  • Barrier to entry: Licensing requirements may reduce the number of available consultants and increase service costs, potentially harming lower-income families who rely on lactation support
  • Existing credentials: Many consultants already hold national certification (IBCLC); critics may argue state licensure duplicates existing standards rather than improving safety

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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