Rep. Robyn Vining Re-Introduces Universal Changing Stations Legislation

MADISON–Representative Robyn Vining re-introduced the Universal Changing Stations bill today with her Democratic colleagues Sen. Dora Drake, Rep. Tara Johnson, Rep. Shelia Stubbs, and Sen. Jeff Smith. LRB-2107 requires the installation of adult-sized changing stations in certain high-capacity public buildings and creates a tax credit for small businesses to install these stations. Rep. Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa) released the following statement:

“Bathroom accessibility is a public health issue and a human dignity issue. For many of us, using the restroom is a routine, easily accessible part of our everyday lives. Whether it’s at work, school, a sporting event, or a concert, we are able to take care of our needs. For those who need assistance using the restroom–including adults and older children with disabilities–using the restroom in public can be nearly impossible.

“At one of my very first in-district meetings with constituents in 2019, a mother shared her concerns about the lack of adult-sized changing stations in public places for people with disabilities. Sarah shared that her family is affected because her son Matthew had been unable to go to basketball games, museums, and airports because, then at age 19, he had to be changed on the floor of public restrooms or in the back of their van. This also affected their family’s ability to do things together. Access to changing stations is an issue of public health and of human dignity. And, it’s an issue of community connection. We have a population of people in need who are going unseen because they are unable to participate in society. Since the buildings don’t work for the people, the people aren’t going to the buildings. We can change that, and so we should.

“Universal Changing Stations are a growing reality in Wisconsin–businesses want to do the right thing, and we have already seen community partners stepping up. Expanding access to changing stations in Wisconsin will help adults and older children with disabilities, older adults who need assistance, along with parents and other family members, home health care workers, and other care providers. Let’s find common ground for the common good and make Wisconsin safe and accessible for everyBODY. Forward, together.”

Rep. Vining represents the 13th Assembly District, which includes Elm Grove, and parts of Wauwatosa and Brookfield. For more information visit Rep. Vining’s website here.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.