Bucco Bill to Require Diaper Changing Stations in Men’s Restrooms Advances

Senator Anthony Bucco’s (R-25) legislation to require baby changing stations in public restrooms, including men’s bathrooms, passed the Senate Community and Urban Affairs Committee.

“Fathers shouldn’t be forced to change their baby’s diaper in unsanitary conditions,” said Bucco. “Diapers often need to be changed at inconvenient times and places. It would make all the difference to parents if all of our bathrooms were family-friendly. Installing changing stations in men’s public restrooms will give New Jersey’s fathers a safe and hygienic place to change diapers.”

Bucco’s bipartisan legislation, S-3589, would require the installation of diaper-changing stations in any newly constructed men or women’s public restroom in New Jersey. It would also require the installation in renovated restrooms costing more than $5,000.

A recent Center for Disease Control study found that 90 percent of fathers who live with their children report that they bathe, diaper, or dress their children every day or several days a week. Current law does not require public restrooms to be equipped with changing stations, but institutions who voluntarily offer accommodations tend to do so only in women’s restrooms.

“We live in a day and age where men and women are more likely than ever before to share in all of the responsibilities that come along with being a parent. I have no doubt that this bill will go a long way to help parents, young families, including New Jersey’s youngest citizens, stay healthy and safe.”