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HB 2136

To require at least 1 baby changing station to existing and future rest areas in this state for both male and female restrooms

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Josh Holstein

House Bill 2136 requires all new state rest areas to include diaper changing stations in both male and female restrooms, enhancing convenience for families with young children.

To House Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism
#health
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Bill Summary · HB 2136

Summary of House Bill 2136

Bill Number: HB 2136
Title: To require at least 1 baby changing station to existing and future rest areas in this state for both male and female restrooms
Status: To House Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism
Introduced: February 12, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Health

Purpose and Intent

House Bill 2136 aims to enhance the accessibility of diaper changing facilities in public rest areas and welcome centers across West Virginia. The bill mandates that all state-owned rest areas and welcome centers constructed on or after January 1, 2026, must include at least one diaper changing station in both male and female restrooms. This initiative seeks to support families with young children by providing necessary facilities for diaper changes, thereby promoting convenience and hygiene.

Key Provisions

  • Diaper Changing Station Requirement:

    • All new state-owned rest areas and welcome centers built after January 1, 2026, are required to have at least one diaper changing station in both male and female restrooms.

  • Implementation Timeline:

    • The requirement will apply to facilities constructed on or after the specified date, ensuring that future developments adhere to this standard.

Impact

  • Who Will Be Affected:

    • Families traveling with infants and toddlers will benefit from the availability of diaper changing stations, making travel more convenient and accommodating.
    • State agencies responsible for the construction and maintenance of public rest areas will need to comply with the new requirements, potentially affecting planning and budgeting for future projects.

  • Public Health and Convenience:

    • The introduction of diaper changing stations is expected to improve public health standards by providing hygienic options for parents and caregivers, reducing the likelihood of unsanitary practices in public restrooms.

Legislative Actions

  • February 12, 2025: Introduced in the House and referred to the Committee on Government Organization.
  • February 13, 2025: Further referred to the House Agriculture, Commerce and Tourism Committee.

Conclusion

House Bill 2136 represents a significant step towards improving facilities for families in West Virginia's public rest areas. By ensuring that diaper changing stations are available in both male and female restrooms, the bill addresses a critical need for parents traveling with young children, promoting both convenience and public health.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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