Hernandez Bill Expanding Access to Baby Changing Stations Passes House Floor Vote

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Families with young children will have better, safer access to baby changing stations in public spaces under a new bill passed by state Rep. Elizabeth “Lisa” Hernandez, D-Cicero, ensuring parks, hotels, restaurants, and small entertainment venues have more complete restroom accommodations.

“We’re continuing to make Illinois the best place to start and raise a family, and making sure parents can continue to visit their favorite restaurants and parks while still safely and easily taking care of their babies, is central to our efforts,” Hernandez said. “My legislation addresses a fundamental gap in our public accommodations for young families. A father from my district brought to my attention the fact that many spaces open to the public and frequented by families are not equipped with a baby changing station. We know that a young child may need to be changed anywhere at any time, and we want to make sure our public spaces are not only family friendly, but safe for babies and sanitary for the public.”

Hernandez's House Bill 2952 expands the list of public buildings required to have a baby changing station in their restrooms to include spaces such as hotels, movie theaters, public transportation stations and standalone public park facilities.

Hernandez's legislation now moves to the Illinois Senate for consideration.
For more information, visit ILGA.gov.