Political Quotes

“Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. 5147, the ``Bathrooms Accessible In Every Situation (BABIES) Act of 2016.'' This is an important measure that would provide diaper changing facilities in male and female restrooms in public buildings. This piece of legislation simply seeks to provide equal rights to both men and women caregivers. According to a report released by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, fathers today are more involved with their children. Fathers also need access to childcare facilities. H.R. 5147 would apply to: any public building constructed, altered, or acquired by the General Services Administration a year after the enactment of this measure; and any other public building, not described above, beginning two years after the enactment of this measure. H.R. 5147 would not apply to: public buildings where the restrooms are not for public use; and restrooms in a public building with clear and conspicuous signage indicating where another restroom, male or female, is located within the same sector or corridor of said building. In California, two similar state bills were struck down that would have provided equal access to changing tables for both men and women. Positive reforms are, however, taking place around the country. For example, Miami Dade County, Florida, requires that new and remodeled businesses have baby changing stations that are accessible by both men and women.…”