If you’re building a new NYC property or renovating an old one, there’s a new rule you’ll need to adhere to — and it’s probably not one you’ve heard much about. Thanks to New York City Councilman Rafael Espinal, NYC public buildings are now required to install a baby changing station in their restrooms and ensure that it’s accessible to both men and women.
Talking Changing Tables
Espinal introduced the legislation last year after seeing a father change his child’s diaper over a dirty sink in a public restroom. He told the Huffington Post, “It was terrible to see a father changing his child’s diaper on top of a public sink where hundreds of people wash their hands after using the restroom. Parents should be changing their children’s diapers with a little more dignity, in a space that’s sanitary.”
Though Espinal doesn’t have kids himself, his concern was shared by many on the council, and his proposed bill passed in mid-December. New York is the first major city in the country to pass such a bill.
Here are details of the rule:
- All new public developments must install a baby changing station in both the men’s and women’s restroom facilities.
- Though existing buildings don’t have to retro-fit their facilities with changing stations, if they ever undergo upgrades or renovations, they will be required to install changing tables at that time.
- Public restrooms of all types qualify, including movie theaters, restaurants, grocery stores, and even bars.
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