breastfeeding and NY law

[Guest guest]

Below is a partial of the post that I made on Lactnet a couple of days ago:

This is personal but breastfeeding related and would so appreciate any suggestions for handling the following situation. My daughter is exclusively breastfeeding my 4.5 mos old grandson as well as attachment parenting him. Her older son, six yr, is having a school presentation/picnic in lieu of kindergarten graduation in a couple of weeks and she's been informed by his teacher that siblings are not allowed to attend. She spoke with the teacher and the principal explaining her situation of having a nursing baby who has not been separated from her, does not take a bottle and who is in-arms, and needs to be with her. She also stated her older son would be devastated if she were not there. The principal said the no siblings rule is a district wide one and no exceptions could be made. My dd politely pointed out (though seething inside) that she understood that a sibling running around could be disruptive but her little one is worn on her body in a wrap or sling and if fussy, nursing quickly calmed him. She is upset not only due to her personal situation but also on the principle of disregard for family and the needs of an infant.

I have heard from Liz , Vance, both lawyers, as you likely know, among others and I'm in the process of helping my daughter write a letter before this event takes place. I've looked up NY law and see there is no enforcement provision should her rights be denied but I thought originally there was a fine which could be given to offenders who deny mom her right to breastfeed. Anyone from NY or elsewhere who knows what happened to this? Just thought I'd add it to the letter if its still valid. Also, any suggestions re handling this are welcome. Thank you in advance.

Barbara Latterner, BSN, RN, IBCLC

Brewster, NY