Rhode Island Law Requires Universal Changing Stations In New Public Buildings

PROVIDENCE, RI — State Rep. Thomas E. Noret and state Sen. Peter A. Appollonio Jr. joined Gov. Dan McKee Tuesday for a ceremonial bill signing of legislation they sponsored that requires universal changing stations in new public buildings.

Advocates Diane Silva, who leads the Rhode Island Chapter of the Changing Spaces campaign, and Cathy Andreozzi, the founder of the Tori Lynn Andreozzi Foundation, also attended the ceremony.

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The act requires the installation of universal changing stations in all newly constructed, reconstructed or remodeled public buildings and places of public accommodation in the state, starting in 2027. The law defines a “universal changing station” as an enclosed changing facility accessible to people of all ages and genders who require assistance with diapering.

“A universal changing station provides safe and dignified access to public restrooms for individuals with disabilities or other medical needs who may not be able to access standard handicapped accessible restrooms,” Rep. Noret, D-Coventry, West Warwick, said in a media release.

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“This bill looks to make public restrooms more accessible and inclusive, preserving the dignity of all Rhode Islanders," Noret said. "It’s already law in seven states, and 14 more are considering it during their current legislative sessions.”

The legislation makes the Department of Administration responsible for adopting regulations to specify the requirements for these stations, according to the release, and also allows for exemptions in certain cases, such as when installation is not feasible or would compromise historic significance.

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“We tend to take for granted when we need to use a bathroom that one will be there to accommodate us,” Sen. Appollonio, D-Warwick, said in the release.

“For many with disabilities, the changing of a diaper can involve humiliation, oftentimes on the floor of a bathroom or in a van," Appollonio said. "This legislation would provide equitable access to restrooms with the dignity that should be afforded every human being.”

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