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HB 1824

Transportation, Dept. of - As introduced, requires each safety rest area that provides restrooms for the public to provide access to at least one family restroom. - Amends TCA Title 4, Chapter 3; Title 54 and Title 68, Chapter 120.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kevin Raper

Tennessee bill requires each public safety rest area with restrooms to provide at least one family restroom for accessibility and inclusivity.

Taken off notice for cal in s/c Finance, Ways, and Means Subcommittee of Finance, Ways, and Means Committee
#dept.of #transportation
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Bill Summary · HB 1824

Legislative bill overview

HB 1824 mandates that every public safety rest area in Tennessee with restroom facilities must provide at least one family restroom (also called single-occupancy or all-gender restrooms). The bill amends multiple sections of Tennessee Code to establish and enforce this requirement across the state's rest area network.

Why is this important

Family restrooms accommodate parents with young children, people with disabilities requiring assistance, and transgender individuals who may face safety concerns in gender-specific facilities. This requirement directly affects user experience and accessibility at highway rest stops, which serve thousands of travelers daily. The mandate also carries implementation costs for the Department of Transportation, including retrofitting existing facilities or constructing new ones.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and budgetary impact: Retrofitting or constructing family restrooms at every rest area statewide requires capital investment; the bill has already been referred to the Finance, Ways, and Means Committee, suggesting cost concerns exist
  • Definition and compliance standards: The bill doesn't specify what constitutes adequate "access" to a family restroom or establish timelines for compliance, potentially creating ambiguity in implementation
  • Scope and feasibility: Rest areas vary significantly in size and location; smaller facilities may face practical constraints in adding additional restroom infrastructure without major renovations

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

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