The study looks at breastfeeding initiation rates, defined as a baby receiving breast milk before being discharged from the hospital or before a birth certificate is completed. Early breastfeeding increases the likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding and longer breastfeeding, according to Johns Hopkins University. Magner attributes Oregon’s high level of breastfeeding initiation to a supportive culture, noting the state’s long-standing parental leave and workplace breastfeeding policies. WIC encourages breastfeeding and provides extra benefits and resources to parents who breastfeed, including more food, breastfeeding education, and breastfeeding aids like pumps. This story was produced by the Oregon Journalism Project, a nonprofit investigative newsroom for the state of Oregon.