Relates to diaper changing accommodations in certain buildings

BILL NUMBER:S4805

Title of bill

An act to amend the civil rights law, in relation to diaper changing accommodations in certain buildings

Purpose or general idea of bill

To provide equal access to diaper changing tables in restrooms regardless of the gender for which the restroom is designed.

Summary of specific provisions

Section 1 adds a new section 79-o to the civil rights law to require that any public building or place of public accommodation, resort or amusement shall provide diaper changing accommodations regardless of the gender for which the restroom is designed, and establishes that this provision applies to restrooms constructed or substantially renovated on or after the effective date of the law. It also requires compliance with laws regarding access for persons with disabilities and with existing fire, health, and safety standards.

Section 2 establishes that the act shall take effect immediately.

Justification

This legislation would correct an inequity in New York State law that does not require equal access to diaper changing tables for all genders in public restrooms. There is a misguided perception among many establishments that changing tables are only a necessary accommodation in women's restrooms, which makes it very difficult in many cases for fathers to find a suitable place to change their child's diaper.

By requiring public buildings and public places of accommodation to provide equal access to changing tables, this legislation would make it easier for men to find a place to change their child's diaper and remedy an often overlooked inequity in our state's laws.

Prior legislative history

None.

Fiscal implications

None to the state.

Effective date

This act shall take effect immediately.