We did it! S2379 and H7882 passed June 2024, expanding lactation licensure to CLCs and ALCs

Brought to you by the advocacy team who passed the Perinatal Doula Act

Now that this has passed, the initial step is for RI Department of Health to establish health professional regulations based on the updated law now that the governor has signed it.  This will involve a public component. Join our newsletter for updates!

Creating an Equitable Landscape for Lactation Consultant Licensure in Rhode Island

Please refer to the National Health Law Policy Issue Brief on the imperative demand for lactation licensure equity in Rhode Island to support all families.

  • Including CLC and ALC certifications as pathways to licensure will achieve two key goals:

    1. Broaden the pool of qualified lactation professionals: This will provide families with greater access to lactation support across diverse settings.

    2. Address disparities in access: Increased access to lactation support has the potential to help bridge the gap in breastfeeding support, particularly for families who may face challenges.

  • They do not! Each of these professional lactation certifications has it’s own requirements, exam, scope of practice and code of ethics. Each are qualified and proven safe to support families and refer to other specialties and higher levels of care when indicated. This bill will clearly distinguish the differences.

  • This legislation will not change any scope of practice, pathway to licensure or undermine the Lactation Consultant Practice Act of 2014. H7882 and S2379 updates the "Lactation Consultant Practice Act of 2014" to recognize Certified Lactation Counselor (CLC) and Advanced Lactation Counselor (ALC) certifications as qualifications for licensure as lactation support professionals. While the current law acknowledges lactation support in clinical settings, it doesn't explicitly include these vital certifications. This omission excludes a significant portion of Rhode Island's qualified lactation professionals.