Although I am quite sympathetic to the idea of being able to give something to a starving baby, I can't imagine that having free formula company samples available is the only solution to that. It appears that the Texas law is designed to prevent HCPs from participating in free advertising, not designed to prevent altruism. Surely, if it is okay to buy groceries for a family, it would also be okay to buy food for a baby if you felt the need. Neither is likely to be a permanent solution for the family, and our current systems of safety nets are of course needed. As to what docs get from formula companies - it varies but in my experience certainly isn't worth it. I don't accept formula samples or gifts, but my partner does. Usually the reps leave pens, or occasionally food, or other small gifts. In the hospital the sometimes sponsor CME conferences. One rep drove a long way to see me since she heard I was "into breastfeeding." She wanted me to give out sample bags that were little coolers which she said were "perfect for storing breastmilk." Of course the formula name was emblazoned over everything and there were coupons for free formula "if you have to supplement." Mothers definitely do perceive that the formula given to them by the hospital or doctor to be superior. I hear this again and again from my own patients. I try to dispel this notion, even with the formula feeding parents and explain the nature of advertising and brand loyalty! Jennifer Tieman Family Physician Mom to 4, including my toddler nursling Caroline Rose *********************************************** To temporarily stop your subscription: set lactnet nomail To start it again: set lactnet mail (or digest) To unsubscribe: unsubscribe lactnet All commands go to [log in to unmask] The LACTNET mailing list is powered by L-Soft's renowned LISTSERV(R) list management software together with L-Soft's LSMTP(R) mailer for lightning fast mail delivery. For more information, go to: http://www.lsoft.com/LISTSERV-powered.html