Donato’s bill to allow jury duty exemptions for breastfeeding women passes Senate

Last Updated on January 14, 2026 by Cass County Communication Network

STATEHOUSE — A bill authored by State Sen. Stacey A. Donato (R-Logansport) that would allow for a jury duty exemption for breastfeeding women unanimously passed out of the Senate on January 13.

Senate Bill 139 would allow courts to excuse a woman from jury duty if she gave birth in the past year, is breastfeeding and request an exemption.

“Juries are an incredibly valuable part of our judicial system, but this exemption would allow new mothers the ability to prioritize giving their baby the best care,” Donato said. “One calendar year is not a long exemption, but that year can be crucial to women and their babies.”

As of last year, 22 states have enacted laws allowing for similar exemptions.

SB 139 now moves to the House of Representatives for further consideration.

Donato encourages residents of Senate District 18 to contact her with any questions or comments they may have. Donato can be reached by filling out a “Contact Me” form online at www.IndianaSenateRepublicans.com/Donato or by phone at 317-234-9054.

SOURE: News release from Office of State Senator Stacey Donato

State Sen. Stacey Donato (R-Logansport) represents Senate District 18,  which includes Cass, Fulton and Miami counties, and portions of Howard and Kosciusko counties.