What the New BABES Enhancement Act Means for Breastfeeding & Pumping Travelers

The U.S. House passed the BABES Enhancement Act, an important update designed to better protect breastmilk, formula, and breastfeeding equipment during TSA screening. The bill strengthens the original Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening Act (Public Law 114-293) and requires the Transportation Security Administration to implement clearer, safer, and more hygienic screening procedures for parents traveling with milk and feeding supplies.

If you’ve ever traveled while breastfeeding or pumping, you know how stressful airport screening can be. This legislation aims to change that, creating more consistent experiences, higher hygiene standards, and more respectful treatment for nursing parents at security checkpoints.

Here’s what you need to know.

What the BABES Enhancement Act Requires From TSA

The updates in the new Act (S.260 / H.R.3386) are specific, measurable, and designed to ensure accountability. Under this law, TSA must:

1. Issue updated guidance within 90 days

TSA will release updated policies explaining exactly how breastmilk, formula, pump parts, and cooling accessories must be screened, handled, and protected. This guidance must then be reviewed and updated every five years.

2. Consult with national maternal health organizations

TSA is now required to work directly with leading maternal and infant health groups when creating these guidelines—ensuring policies reflect real-world needs, safety concerns, and best practices for breastfeeding parents.

3. Enforce strict hygienic handling standards

Every TSA agent and private security screener must follow clear hygiene standards when handling milk and feeding equipment. This helps prevent contamination and ensures safer travel for infants and parents.

4. Undergo an Inspector General audit within one year

The Department of Homeland Security will audit TSA within 12 months to verify that updated standards are being implemented and followed. This step adds crucial oversight and accountability.

Why This Legislation Matters for Breastfeeding Parents

Traveling with breastmilk or pumping supplies can already feel intimidating and inconsistent handling at security makes it even harder.

This Act is designed to:

• Protect breastmilk and formula from contamination

• Ensure respectful, consistent treatment across airports

• Reduce stress and confusion for traveling parents

• Create safer, clearer protocols for everyone involved

For breastfeeding and pumping families, this is a meaningful win.

What Happens Next?

The BABES Enhancement Act has now passed both the House and the Senate. The President is expected to sign it shortly, at which point TSA’s 90-day timeline to issue updated guidance officially begins.

Movemama will continue to share updates as new information is released, especially instructions that affect breastfeeding or pumping moms in real travel situations.

Why We’re Sharing This (Even If It’s Not Our Usual Content)

We know this isn’t our typical nursing-friendly outfit content, but it directly impacts the moms we serve. Many of you travel for work, visit family, or fly during the holidays while breastfeeding or pumping. And you deserve to know that safer, clearer, more respectful policies are on the way.

If you found this helpful, please share this  so more parents can stay informed and feel confident about their rights at TSA.

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