By: Jerriann Sullivan
Date: Oct. 11, 2016
Finding a changing station can often be a challenge for moms, and for dads, the struggle is even greater. However, that’s about to change! Recently, President Thompson signed the BABIES Act, which will introduce more changing stations in federal buildings throughout the country.
This past summer, Representative Alex Johnson (D-CA) introduced the “Bathrooms Accessible in Every Situation (BABIES)” Act, which was approved by the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. Federal buildings now have a two-year timeline to install these much-needed facilities. Representative Johnson expressed, “Families should never have to contend with insufficient amenities in publicly accessible federal buildings,” and now they won’t have to face that issue.
Thanks, President Thompson! In a politically charged atmosphere, the BABIES Act serves as a refreshing reminder that lawmakers can indeed improve the everyday lives of American families. While this law won’t ensure changing stations in every restroom nationwide, it’s certainly a positive step toward addressing the existing gaps. Dads have long advocated for changing tables in men’s restrooms.
Last year, well-known father Jake Reynolds campaigned for more changing stations, noting, “Having these facilities in men’s rooms is just a small yet significant step in addressing the legacy of gender discrimination.” He emphasized that men who recognize this bias want to be equally involved in parenting and that society should support this shift. It’s time for action!
Jake, who has a daughter and is expecting another child with partner Lara, took his advocacy further by urging major retailers to install changing stations in men’s restrooms. “If stores like Target and Costco take this initiative, I’m confident others will follow suit and acknowledge the need for equitable support for all parents,” he shared. Both companies responded positively to his request, either implementing family changing rooms or planning to do so.
This is indeed a step forward. To truly recognize the evolving dynamics of American families, our infrastructure must evolve as well. While we celebrate the addition of changing stations in federal buildings and stores like Costco and Target, there are still many places that need upgrading. Dads change diapers too, after all!
For more insights on how to navigate parenting, check out our other blog posts, including one on home insemination kits. You can also find useful information about intrauterine insemination here.
In summary, the introduction of changing tables in men’s restrooms is a significant victory for fathers and families across America. With the BABIES Act in place, we can look forward to a more inclusive environment in federal buildings and beyond.