BILL NUMBER: S7697B
SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:
An act to amend the civil rights law, in relation to enacting the "trav-
eling with dignity act"
 
PURPOSE:
Relates to establishing the "traveling with dignity act"
 
SUMMARY OF PROVISIONS:
Section 1 establishes the short title.
Section 2 amends the civil rights law to define adult changing accommo-
dations and to establish guidelines for the installation of adult chang-
ing accommodations in public spaces.
Section 3 states the effective date.
 
JUSTIFICATION:
Adult changing tables are an incredibly important resource for adults
who struggle with mobility issues and incontinence, allowing them to
access the same amenities as those who are ambulatory. Without them,
caregivers may need to resort to changing those in the care in spaces
that may be unsanitary or unsafe, such as bathroom floors, or avoiding
public spaces altogether. That the tables are height-adjustable is
necessary to make this accommodation accessible to people with disabili-
ties who vary in ability, height, and weight.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) passed in 1990 set forth
requirements for public spaces to implement accessibility elements such
as ramps, mobility devices, and more. Unfortunately, adult changing
accommodations were not included in the act, making it imperative for
New York State to pass legislation ensuring that public buildings are
completely accessible to disabled New Yorkers.
Requiring adult changing stations to be installed in public spaces will
afford adults with mobility issues and incontinence the dignity they
deserve, as well as allow them and their caregivers to visit movie thea-
ters, museums, convention centers, and more without worry.
 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:
This is a new bill.
 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:
None to the State.
 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.