Alabama Senate Advances ‘Parker’s Law’ to Protect Nursing Mothers from Jury Duty
"Parker's Law" aims to codify these exemptions into state law, providing a clear legal framework for nursing mothers.
Montgomery, AL - In a significant legislative development, the Alabama Senate has unanimously passed Senate Bill 76, known as "Parker's Law," which seeks to exempt breastfeeding mothers from jury duty. The bill, sponsored by Senator April Weaver, was introduced on February 4, 2025, and swiftly moved through the legislative process.
The legislation was prompted by the experience of Kandace Brown, a mother from Morris, Alabama, who was compelled to attend jury duty despite exclusively breastfeeding her infant daughter, Parker. Brown's situation garnered widespread attention and highlighted the absence of legal protections for nursing mothers in Alabama.
In response to the public outcry, the Alabama Supreme Court issued an administrative order in January 2025, mandating that judges establish procedures to excuse breastfeeding mothers from jury service. The order allows exemption requests to be submitted via telephone, email, or in writing prior to jury selection.
Building upon this directive, "Parker's Law" aims to codify these exemptions into state law, providing a clear legal framework for nursing mothers. Under the proposed legislation, a nursing mother who is excused will be exempt from jury service for a 24-month period, after which she may be summoned again.
With the Senate's approval, the bill now advances to the Alabama House of Representatives, where it will undergo further consideration. If enacted, Alabama will join 22 other states that have established legal exemptions for breastfeeding mothers from jury duty.
State Auditor Andrew Sorrell, who has been a vocal advocate for the bill, expressed optimism about its progress, stating, "Every Senator voted yes. This bill is now called 'Parker’s Law' after 4-month-old baby Parker."
The proposed legislation reflects a growing recognition of the unique challenges faced by nursing mothers and represents a significant step toward accommodating their needs within the judicial system.
