The New York State Department of Health amended a series of regulations directed at the state's 126 birthing hospitals to promote breastfeeding among new mothers.
In part, the amended regulations prohibit hospitals and affiliated clinics from giving out gift bags that contain formula marketing materials such as coupons for free samples to new parents.
Many hospitals in New York have already voluntarily stopped distributing free formula and marketing materials. The amended regulations aim to ensure total compliance.
The updated regulations are effective Jan. 16.