SPRINGFIELD – Legislation that would increase the availability of baby changing facilities in public buildings passed the Senate today.

State Senator Ram Villivalam is the chief sponsor of this initiative.

“Our state should welcome and support all parents, guardians, and caretakers,” Villivalam (D-Skokie) said. “This legislation removes an unnecessary barrier to child care by ensuring that all those who are raising children, regardless of gender identity, have access to a baby changing station in public places.”

HB 3711 would ensure that all public restrooms in buildings that are readily accessible to the public have baby changing stations that are physically safe, sanitary, and usable. Currently, many men’s rooms or single occupancy bathrooms lack changing stations. In addition, signage outside the entrance to restrooms where the baby changing station is located would be required.

This legislation awaits the governor’s signature to become law.