MONTGOMERY — Members of the Alabama Senate unanimously passed Parker’s Law, a bill that exempts breastfeeding mothers from jury duty.
The issue came to light recently after a Jefferson County mother was forced to report for jury duty while breastfeeding her three-month-old baby girl.
Kandace Brown, of Morris, received a jury summons in December. She attempted to call to be excused and filled out a form but never heard back.
While in the excusal process, Brown said Jefferson County Circuit Judge Shanta Owens mentioned that she could hear children. Governor Kay Ivey appointed Owens to the Jefferson County Circuit Court in 2019.
"She thanked everyone for being there, and she said, 'I can't see them, but I hear there are children here today. Any mother that has brought a child with them needs to make accommodations for their child to come and (be) picked up. I would hate for DHR to be involved," Brown said of Owens.
The bill is named after Brown’s son, Parker.
The Alabama Supreme Court also passed an administrative order in January exempting breastfeeding mothers from jury duty.
State Sen. April Weaver (R-Brierfield), the bill’s sponsor, said legislation was needed because an administrative order could be reversed.
“We’re committed to protecting Alabama families and Alabama values, and we’re going to do everything we can to protect these young mothers and the challenges they face,” Weaver said on the Senate floor on Tuesday.
The bill now heads to the House.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email caleb.taylor@1819News.com.
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