How the BABES Act Is Changing Air Travel for Parents — A Win for Families in Congress
Traveling with a baby is never simple, and for breastfeeding parents, navigating airport security has often been one of the most frustrating parts of the journey. But thanks to a new bipartisan law now on the books, that’s finally beginning to change.
In late 2025, Congress passed the Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act, and it was signed into law — a move supporters say brings much-needed clarity, dignity, and safety to air travel for parents with infants.
Why the BABES Act Was Needed
Before this law, existing rules were supposed to protect parents traveling with breast milk, formula, pump parts, ice packs, and other feeding supplies. But in practice, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoints often treated these essentials inconsistently. Parents reported everything from having to dump milk that went over the 3-ounce limit (even though it *technically wasn’t supposed to count toward it) to mishandling of breast milk in unsanitary ways during screening. These experiences left many feeling embarrassed, stressed, and uncertain about traveling with their children.
Stories like those shared by science communicator Emily Calandrelli — who faced humiliating treatment while traveling with breast milk — helped push this issue into the spotlight and build momentum for reform. You can read more about Emily’s experience here.
What the BABES Act Actually Does
So, what’s in this new law? At its heart, the BABES Act directs the TSA to clarify and improve how it handles breast milk, formula, and the gear parents need to transport them. Key provisions include:
- Clearer Guidance: TSA must develop and publish updated, easy-to-understand policies for screening breast milk and related items so parents know what to expect.
- Hygienic Handling Standards: The law requires TSA to work with maternal health experts to ensure screening procedures protect the health and safety of the milk and feeding supplies — no dipping test strips directly into milk without gloves, for example.
- Training for Officers: TSA personnel will receive better training on how to treat these items properly and respectfully at security checkpoints.
- Ongoing Updates: The guidance will be reviewed and updated every few years to reflect changes in technology and feedback from parents and health professionals.
A Bipartisan Effort With Real-World Impact
What makes the BABES Act especially notable is how broadly it was supported. The bill moved forward with sponsors from both parties in the House and Senate and passed without major controversy.
Lawmakers on both sides described the law as a practical, commonsense step to support families and ease unnecessary stress for parents traveling with infants.
“It’s about dignity, peace of mind, and protecting families at one of the most vulnerable moments of parenthood,” Rep. Swalwell said after it became law.
Why It Matters Beyond the Airport
While it might seem like a small change, the BABES Act addresses a real quality-of-life challenge for millions of parents. Breastfeeding experts note that interruptions in pumping or improper handling of breast milk can have health consequences for both parent and child. The law also recognizes that traveling parents shouldn’t have to feel humiliated or unsure about their rights at a security checkpoint.
For many families, this law makes traveling with infants less stressful and more predictable — an important step in supporting parents as they balance work, family, and everything in between.