Goodwin and Son

Goodwin and Son

Rep. Melanie Goodwin is juggling her duties as a legislator and caring for her newborn son during this year's short session. Earlier this month, the Richmond County Democrat became the first lawmaker in state history to have a baby while holding office. Now she is bringing her son, Jackson, daily to the Legislative Building. She was back in her seat on the House floor when Speaker Joe Hackney brought the General Assembly to order Tuesday for the first time since last September. "I hope that young women who are concerned about serving in the Legislature and having a small child see this as an opportunity and wouldn't let it stand in their way," Goodwin said. "I think we can do both."

At Goodwin's request, Hackney's staff located an office at the General Assembly to serve as a nursery. Her family decorated the office before the delivery with a bassinet, changing table, rocking chair, wall hangings and rugs covered with animals and bright colors. Goodwin hired a nanny -- with personal funds -- who is caring for Jackson in the nursery while she attends committee meetings and receives visitors in her legislative office. Carol Teal, executive director of Lillian's List of North Carolina, which works to elect and support female Democratic candidates to the Legislature, said the accommodating environment Goodwin and the House have created for Jackson probably wouldn't have been available even 10 years ago. "We're really happy that with a support system that she can still be there and do the great job that she's done," Teal said.

(Gary D. Robertson, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS, 5/14/08).