Our very own founder, Haleigh Almquist, was interviewed on Monday at NBC Studios in Washington, DC about the BABES Act and its impact on families traveling with babies or small children. We are so excited to share this interview with the world and are proud of Haleigh for providing excellent insight into the challenges of traveling with an infant. Continue reading to learn more about the BABES Act and see the NBC interview.
The BABES Act
BABES stands for Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening, and the law was born due to inconsistency in TSA screenings concerning breastmilk, formula, juice, and equipment needed to store or transport these liquids properly. Before the passing of the BABES Act, there were already exceptions to the 3-1-1 rule that permitted parents to pass through security with larger containers of liquids needed for their baby or small child. Unfortunately, many parents were unaware that they were allowed to bring these items through the security checkpoint and did not press the issue when confronted by TSA agents. The BABES Act was introduced by Representative Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA) and Senator Kelly Ayotte (NH) and signed into law on December 16, 2016, by former President Barak Obama.
The legislation requires all TSA agents to undergo consistent and regular training on the exemptions to the 3-1-1 rule for parents of infants and small children. As a result of proper training, it is believed that the rules will be enforced consistently at all security checkpoints. Ultimately, consistent screening at our nation’s airports will make it easier for all parents to travel with their children and should prevent the loss of valuable nourishment or equipment needed by our little ones.
The Interview
Below is a link to the video and story of Haleigh’s interview with NBC11 News in Washington, DC. Haleigh provides a valuable perspective as an informed parent who has been able to exercise her rights when passing through TSA security checkpoints. While it is not expressly mentioned in the interview, her role within the newborn care community provides added weight to her viewpoints and opinions that hopefully help other parents feel validated.
http://www.nbc11news.com/content/news/413014113.html
It is our hope that you found the information contained in this blog to be useful to you and your family and we would love to hear your reaction to the BABES Act, so sound off in the comments section below.