FAQ: California's Donor Milk Law and the Surge in Demand for Donor Milk

What is Assembly Bill 3059?

Assembly Bill 3059, also known as the Human Milk Bill, mandates commercial insurance coverage for medically necessary pasteurized donor human milk and removes the requirement for hospitals to have a tissue bank license to distribute milk from a licensed tissue bank.

Why has there been a 30% surge in demand for donor milk in California?

The surge is directly tied to the expanded insurance coverage and the removal of the tissue bank license requirement for hospitals under AB3059, making donor milk more accessible and affordable for families with medically fragile newborns.

Who is affected by the increased demand for donor milk?

Medically fragile newborns, especially preterm infants, and their families are affected, as they rely on donor milk for essential nutrition, with the risk of delays in receiving it due to the current supply strain.

How can eligible nursing mothers help meet the demand for donor milk?

Eligible nursing mothers can donate milk by scheduling virtual donor screenings on Saturdays or arranging for at-home milk pick-up in certain counties, as facilitated by Mothers’ Milk Bank California.

What are the benefits of donor milk for newborns?

Donor milk can reduce feeding complications, support gut health, and lower the risk of hospital readmissions for both preterm and full-term newborns, according to emerging research.

Where can prospective donors schedule an appointment or find more information?

Prospective donors can visit the Mothers’ Milk Bank California website or call 1-877-375-6645 (option 3) to schedule a virtual donor screening or learn more about donation options.

When is the at-home milk pick-up service available?

The at-home milk pick-up service is available from June 23 to August 15, 2025, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, for eligible donors in San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Alameda Counties.

What is the significance of AB3059 for neonatal care in California?

AB3059 represents a breakthrough in equitable neonatal care by making life-saving donor milk more accessible and affordable, but its success depends on increasing the donor base to meet the rising demand.