Summary of HR 820: Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening Enhancement Act

Purpose and Intent

The Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening Enhancement Act (HR 820) aims to improve the hygienic handling of breast milk, baby formula, and related feeding items during security screenings at airports. The bill seeks to ensure that families traveling with infants have a safer and more consistent experience when passing through Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints.

Key Provisions

• Hygienic Handling Requirements: The bill mandates that TSA and private security personnel must handle breast milk and baby formula in a hygienic manner during screenings.

• Guidance Updates: The TSA Administrator is required to issue or update guidance on the screening of these items within 90 days of the bill's enactment and at least once every five years thereafter.

• Audit by DHS Inspector General: The Department of Homeland Security's Office of Inspector General (OIG) is directed to conduct a one-time audit within one year of enactment. This audit will assess TSA's compliance with the new hygienic standards and evaluate the effectiveness of screening technologies, such as bottled liquid scanners.

• Focus on Best Practices: The bill builds on the original Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening Act, aiming to codify hygiene-focused standards that reflect best practices in maternal and infant health.

Impact

• Affected Parties: The legislation primarily impacts families traveling with infants and young children, particularly those who rely on breast milk and formula. It also affects TSA personnel and private security screeners who will need to adapt to the new guidelines.

• Addressing Current Issues: The bill responds to reports of inconsistent screening practices, emotional distress for parents, and potential health risks due to improper handling of feeding supplies. It aims to enhance public trust in TSA procedures and ensure that families are treated with care and respect during security screenings.

Procedural Timeline

• Introduced: January 28, 2025
• Committee Consideration: The bill was favorably reported by the Committee on Homeland Security on April 9, 2025.
• Reported: The bill was reported by the Committee on Homeland Security on July 10, 2025, and placed on the Union Calendar (Calendar No. 161).

Conclusion

HR 820 represents a significant step toward improving the travel experience for families with infants by establishing clear standards for the handling of breast milk and baby formula at airport security checkpoints. By mandating updates and audits, the bill aims to ensure that TSA practices are both hygienic and consistent, balancing the need for aviation security with the health and well-being of traveling families.