Governor Kelly Proclaims August “Kansas Breastfeeding Month”

In support of World Breastfeeding Week and National Breastfeeding Month TOPEKA – At an official signing ceremony on July 31, 2026, Governor Laura Kelly proclaimed August “Kansas Breastfeeding Month.” This proclamation recognizes the importance of breastfeeding for the health and well-being of Kansans.

“We are honored that Governor Kelly has recognized National Breastfeeding Month through this proclamation. Every family deserves access to the information, support, and community they need to make the feeding decisions that are right for them. This recognition helps strengthen the foundation for healthier families and a more family-friendly Kansas.” Katie Givens, Executive Director of the Kansas Breastfeeding Coalition (KBC), said.

Ninety percent of families in Kansas choose to breastfeed. Kansas is ranked thirteenth in the nation for initiation this is up from last years ranking of 26th. However, only around one in three Kansas infants are exclusively breastfed through the critical first six months of life. Lack of support and barriers in the workplace can often be obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) provides guidance on breastfeeding which calls for policy changes to address obstacles for parents who choose to breastfeed, including universal paid maternity leave and insurance coverage for lactation support. Establishing better breastfeeding support will improve both baby and mother’s future health and reduce reliance on infant formula.

Today’s proclamation stresses the role of every Kansan to make breastfeeding easier in our state. The KBC State of Breastfeeding in Kansas 2026 report has action items and resources for individuals, employers, child care providers, healthcare professionals, and others to support breastfeeding.