Fund and institute paid maternity leave for all mothers for one full year so moms and infants can bond and breastfeed.

As a former W.I.C. breastfeeding advocate and counselor, I found that moms not having paid maternity leave really interfered with a lot of moms even initiating breastfeeding. I think the time has come for the U.S. to join the rest of the world and give moms and babies a much needed break. All mothers and infants need to be together to bond and to breastfeed. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends a full year of breastfeeding for both baby's and mother's health. This doesn't happen when moms have to return to work after six weeks (if they have paid sick leave). Most families can't afford to take unpaid family leave.