NY State Senate Bill 2025-S4042B

Current Bill Status - On Floor Calendar

Introduced
- In Committee Assembly
- In Committee Senate
- On Floor Calendar Assembly
- On Floor Calendar Senate
- Passed Assembly
- Passed Senate
Delivered to Governor
Signed By Governor

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Actions

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Date of Action	Assembly Actions - Lowercase Senate Actions - UPPERCASE
May 21, 2026	amended on third reading 4042b
May 21, 2026	vote reconsidered - restored to third reading returned to senate recalled from assembly
May 18, 2026	referred to ways and means delivered to assembly passed senate
May 14, 2026	advanced to third reading
May 13, 2026	2nd report cal.
May 12, 2026	1st report cal.1049
Mar 31, 2026	reported and committed to finance
Feb 19, 2026	print number 4042a
Feb 19, 2026	amend and recommit to disabilities
Jan 07, 2026	referred to disabilities returned to senate died in assembly
Jun 10, 2025	referred to ways and means delivered to assembly passed senate
Jun 04, 2025	ordered to third reading cal.1527 committee discharged and committed to rules
Jan 31, 2025	referred to disabilities

Votes

- May 18, 2026 - Floor Vote
  S4042B
  
  Aye
  
  59
  
  Nay
  
  1
  
  Absent
  
  0
  
  Excused
  
  3
  
  Abstained
  
  0
  - - Floor Vote: May 18, 2026
      
      aye (59)
      
      Addabbo Jr.
      
      Ashby
      
      Bailey
      
      Baskin
      
      Borrello
      
      Bottcher
      
      Brisport
      
      Brouk
      
      Bynoe
      
      Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick
      
      Chan
      
      Cleare
      
      Comrie
      
      Cooney
      
      Fahy
      
      Fernandez
      
      Gallivan
      
      Gianaris
      
      Gonzalez
      
      Gounardes
      
      Griffo
      
      Harckham
      
      Helming
      
      Hinchey
      
      Jackson
      
      Kavanagh
      
      Lanza
      
      Liu
      
      Martinez
      
      Martins
      
      Mattera
      
      May
      
      Mayer
      
      Murray
      
      Myrie
      
      O'Mara
      
      Oberacker
      
      Ortt
      
      Palumbo
      
      Parker
      
      Persaud
      
      Rhoads
      
      Rivera
      
      Rolison
      
      Ryan
      
      Salazar
      
      Scarcella-Spanton
      
      Sepúlveda
      
      Serrano
      
      Skoufis
      
      Stavisky
      
      Stec
      
      Stewart-Cousins
      
      Sutton
      
      Tedisco
      
      Webb
      
      Weber
      
      Weik
      
      Zellner
      
      nay (1)
      
      Walczyk
      
      excused (3)
      
      Krueger
      
      Ramos
      
      Sanders Jr.
      
      The following Member(s) participated via videoconferencing: Brouk
  Jun 10, 2025 - Floor Vote
  S4042B
  
  Aye
  
  57
  
  Nay
  
  1
  
  Absent
  
  0
  
  Excused
  
  5
  
  Abstained
  
  0
  - - Floor Vote: Jun 10, 2025
      
      aye (57)
      
      Ashby
      
      Bailey
      
      Baskin
      
      Borrello
      
      Brisport
      
      Brouk
      
      Bynoe
      
      Canzoneri-Fitzpatrick
      
      Chan
      
      Cleare
      
      Comrie
      
      Cooney
      
      Fahy
      
      Fernandez
      
      Gallivan
      
      Gianaris
      
      Gonzalez
      
      Gounardes
      
      Griffo
      
      Harckham
      
      Helming
      
      Hinchey
      
      Hoylman-Sigal
      
      Jackson
      
      Kavanagh
      
      Krueger
      
      Lanza
      
      Liu
      
      Martinez
      
      Martins
      
      Mattera
      
      May
      
      Mayer
      
      O'Mara
      
      Oberacker
      
      Ortt
      
      Palumbo
      
      Parker
      
      Persaud
      
      Rhoads
      
      Rivera
      
      Rolison
      
      Ryan
      
      Ryan
      
      Salazar
      
      Sanders Jr.
      
      Scarcella-Spanton
      
      Sepúlveda
      
      Serrano
      
      Skoufis
      
      Stavisky
      
      Stec
      
      Stewart-Cousins
      
      Tedisco
      
      Webb
      
      Weber
      
      Weik
      
      nay (1)
      
      Walczyk
      
      excused (5)
      
      Addabbo Jr.
      
      Murray
      
      Myrie
      
      Ramos
      
      Sutton
      
      The following Member(s) participated via videoconferencing: Brouk Scarcella-Spanton
  Jun 4, 2025 - Rules Committee Vote
  S4042B
  
  Aye
  
  16
  
  Nay
  
  0
  
  Aye with Reservations
  
  4
  
  Absent
  
  0
  
  Excused
  
  1
  
  Abstained
  
  0
  - - Rules Committee Vote: Jun 4, 2025
      
      aye (16)
      
      Addabbo Jr.
      
      Bailey
      
      Comrie
      
      Fernandez
      
      Gianaris
      
      Griffo
      
      Harckham
      
      Helming
      
      Hoylman-Sigal
      
      Krueger
      
      Liu
      
      Mayer
      
      Parker
      
      Sepúlveda
      
      Stec
      
      Stewart-Cousins
      
      aye wr (4)
      
      Gallivan
      
      Lanza
      
      O'Mara
      
      Ortt
      
      excused (1)
      
      Myrie
  May 12, 2026 - Finance Committee Vote
  S4042B
  
  Aye
  
  18
  
  Nay
  
  0
  
  Aye with Reservations
  
  2
  
  Absent
  
  1
  
  Excused
  
  1
  
  Abstained
  
  0
  - - Finance Committee Vote: May 12, 2026
      
      aye (18)
      
      Bailey
      
      Borrello
      
      Comrie
      
      Cooney
      
      Gounardes
      
      Griffo
      
      Hinchey
      
      Liu
      
      Mayer
      
      O'Mara
      
      Parker
      
      Ramos
      
      Rivera
      
      Salazar
      
      Sepúlveda
      
      Skoufis
      
      Stavisky
      
      Weber
      
      aye wr (2)
      
      Gallivan
      
      Helming
      
      absent (1)
      
      Oberacker
      
      excused (1)
      
      Krueger
  Mar 31, 2026 - Disabilities Committee Vote
  S4042B
  
  Aye
  
  7
  
  Nay
  
  0
  
  Aye with Reservations
  
  0
  
  Absent
  
  0
  
  Excused
  
  0
  
  Abstained
  
  0
  - - Disabilities Committee Vote: Mar 31, 2026
      
      aye (7)
      
      Ashby
      
      Fahy
      
      Martinez
      
      Persaud
      
      Scarcella-Spanton
      
      Sutton
      
      Weber

Bill Amendments

Original

B (Active)

co-Sponsors

View additional co-sponsors

2025-S4042 - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A6219
Law Section:: Civil Rights Law
Laws Affected:: Add §79-r, Civ Rts L; add §148, Pub Bldg L
Versions Introduced in 2023-2024 Legislative Session:: S7697, A8373

2025-S4042 - Summary

Provides for adult changing tables to be placed within an enclosed restroom facility or other similar private facility that is for use by persons with disabilities who need help with diapering at commercial places of public amusement and state-owned buildings open to the public.

2025-S4042 - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S4042

SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the civil rights law and the public buildings law, in
relation to enacting the "traveling 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. Individuals
cannot participate in society when they do not have a dignified way to
use the restroom. Changing tables and toilets serve similar functions-
they both allow individuals to have a dignified way to relieve them-
selves and clean up afterwards. Both require privacy and safety to
adequately serve their function. And, both result in similar conse-
quences when they are inaccessible; one either compromises their own
physical health and dignity by allowing caregivers to resort to changing
those in their care in spaces that may be unsanitary or unsafe, such as
bathroom floors, or they simply choose to avoid public spaces altogeth-
er.

Lying exposed on a cold, wet, and dirty restroom floor is not only bad
for one's mental health, but also potentially their physical health.
Changing stations also minimize contact with contaminated surfaces,
lowering the chance of infections and viruses. Additionally, tables must
be height-adjustable to make this accommodation accessible to every
person with disabilities who vary in ability, height, and weight, and
allow an easy, safe transfer from a wheelchair.

The United States doesn't have a federal mandate requiring adult-sized
changing stations in public restrooms. The Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) which passed in 1990, serves as a landmark civil rights law
aimed at ensuring equal access for people with disabilities. The ADA set
forth requirements for public spaces to implement accessibility elements
such as ramps, mobility devices, and more. Adult-sized changing tables
are as much a part of accessible toileting as grab bars and toilet
stalls that can accommodate wheelchairs.

Unfortunately, adult changing accommodations were not included in the
act, making it imperative for New York State to pass legislation ensur-
ing that public buildings are completely accessible to disabled New
Yorkers. The "Traveling with Dignity" bill seeks to address these gaps,
making it clear that access to adequate restroom facilities is not mere-
ly a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental civil right.  By mandat-
ing the installation of adult changing stations in public spaces, this
bill recognizes that dignity is a civil right-one that allows adults
with disabilities to visit movie theaters, museums, convention centers,
and other public venues with the same ease and comfort as their able-
bodied peers. It acknowledges that every individual, regardless of their
physical abilities, should have access to clean, safe, and private
facilities. This legislation is not just about compliance; it is about
affirming the inherent dignity of all people and ensuring that every New
Yorker can participate in society fully and with respect.

References:

* Health & Human Rights Journal, No Dignity on the Floor: A Human Rights
Argument for Adult-Sized Changing Tables in Public Restrooms in the
United States,  
HTTPS://WWW.NCHI.NLM.NIH.GOVIPMCIARTICLES/ PMC10309150/

* Wasserstrom Blog, Adult Changing Stations Are a Necessity for Inclu-
sive Public Buildings,  
HTTPS://WWW.WASSERSTROM.COM/BLOG/2024/07/24/
ADULT-CHANGINE-STATIONS-ARE-A-NECESSITY-FOR-INCLUSIVE-
PUBLIC-BUILDINGSRLSTSITID-AFMBOODIVIMCFXYLTS3BWI4YGQZHYK8OL
LSQ05FR3GHBWYW55CS458JEVT

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2023-2024: S7697B/A8373 - Died in Finance/Died in Ways & Means

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None to the State.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

2025-S4042 - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                   4042
 
                        2025-2026 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             January 31, 2025
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by  Sens.  HARCKHAM,  ASHBY, HINCHEY, LIU, MARTINS, ROLISON,
   WEBB, WEBER -- read twice and ordered printed, and when printed to  be
   committed to the Committee on Disabilities
 
 AN  ACT  to  amend the civil rights law and the public buildings law, in
   relation to enacting the "traveling with dignity act"

   THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section  1.  Short  title. This act shall be known and may be cited as
 the "traveling with dignity act".
   § 2. The civil rights law is amended by adding a new section  79-r  to
 read as follows:
   §  79-R.  ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.   1. AS USED IN THIS SECTION,
 THE FOLLOWING TERMS SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING MEANINGS:
   (A) "ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION"  MEANS  A  HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE  ADULT
 CHANGING  TABLE  THAT  IS  FOR USE BY PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES WHO NEED
 HELP WITH DIAPERING.
   (B) "COVERED FACILITY" MEANS A COMMERCIAL PLACE OF  PUBLIC  AMUSEMENT,
 INCLUDING  AUDITORIUMS,  THEATRES, CONVENTION CENTERS, EXHIBITION HALLS,
 PERMANENT AMUSEMENT PARKS, AND SPORTS  ARENAS,  FOR  WHICH  THE  MAXIMUM
 OCCUPANCY IS DETERMINED TO BE TWO THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED OR MORE PEOPLE.
   (C) "DISABILITY" SHALL HAVE THE SAME MEANING AS PROVIDED FOR IN SUBDI-
 VISION  TWENTY-ONE  OF  SECTION  TWO HUNDRED NINETY-TWO OF THE EXECUTIVE
 LAW.
   2. ALL SINGLE-OCCUPANCY BATHROOMS LOCATED IN COVERED FACILITIES  SHALL
 INSTALL  AND  MAINTAIN  AT  LEAST  ONE  ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION FOR
 PERSONS WITH A PHYSICAL DISABILITY THAT IS ACCESSIBLE TO INDIVIDUALS  OF
 ANY  GENDER  WHEN  THE  FACILITY IS OPEN TO THE PUBLIC, AND SHALL ENSURE
 THAT SUCH BATHROOM SHALL BE CLEARLY DESIGNATED BY THE POSTING OF SUCH ON
 OR NEAR THE ENTRY DOOR OF EACH BATHROOM, AND,  IF  THE  FACILITY  HAS  A
 CENTRAL DIRECTORY, SHALL ENSURE THAT THE CENTRAL DIRECTORY INDICATES THE
 LOCATION OF THE ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION, PROVIDED THAT:
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD08285-01-5

 S. 4042                             2
 
   (A)  COVERED  FACILITIES  NEWLY CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER JANUARY FIRST,
 TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SIX SHALL COMPLY WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION
 AT THE TIME OF CONSTRUCTION;
   (B)  EXISTING  COVERED FACILITIES RENOVATED ON OR AFTER JANUARY FIRST,
 TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SIX,  SHALL  COMPLY  WITH  THE  PROVISIONS  OF  THIS
 SECTION AT THE TIME OF RENOVATION; AND
   (C)  ANY  OTHER  EXISTING  COVERED  FACILITY  SHALL  COMPLY  WITH  THE
 PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION NO LATER THAN  JANUARY  FIRST,  TWO  THOUSAND
 THIRTY-THREE.
   3.  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF  THE  OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES, IN COLLAB-
 ORATION WITH THE CHIEF DISABILITY OFFICER, SHALL PROMULGATE  REGULATIONS
 IN  ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION, INCLUDING, BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO, SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE DIMENSIONS  OF  SUCH  ADULT
 CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.
   §  3.  The public buildings law is amended by adding a new section 148
 to read as follows:
   § 148. ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS. 1. AS USED IN THIS SECTION:
   (A) "STATE AGENCY" MEANS ANY STATE DEPARTMENT, OFFICE, BOARD,  BUREAU,
 COMMISSION,    AGENCY,   OR   ANY  PUBLIC  AUTHORITY  OR  PUBLIC BENEFIT
 CORPORATION AT LEAST ONE OF WHOSE MEMBERS IS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR;
   (B) "STATE-OWNED BUILDING" MEANS ANY BUILDING OWNED BY A STATE  AGENCY
 USED FOR OFFICIAL STATE BUSINESS;
   (C)  "SINGLE-OCCUPANCY  BATHROOM" MEANS A BATHROOM INTENDED FOR USE BY
 NO MORE  THAN ONE OCCUPANT AT A TIME OR FOR FAMILY OR ASSISTED  USE  AND
 WHICH HAS A DOOR FOR ENTRY INTO AND EGRESS FROM THE BATHROOM THAT MAY BE
 LOCKED BY THE OCCUPANT TO ENSURE PRIVACY AND SECURITY; AND
   (D)  "ADULT  CHANGING  ACCOMMODATION"  MEANS A HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE ADULT
 CHANGING TABLE THAT IS FOR USE BY PERSONS  WITH  DISABILITIES  WHO  NEED
 HELP WITH DIAPERING.
   2.  EACH  STATE  AGENCY  SHALL  ENSURE  THAT ALL STATE-OWNED BUILDINGS
 DETERMINED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF THE OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES  TO  BE
 OPEN  TO THE PUBLIC SHALL HAVE AT LEAST ONE SINGLE-OCCUPANCY BATHROOM IN
 SUCH BUILDING WITH AN ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION BY JANUARY FIRST, TWO
 THOUSAND TWENTY-NINE.
   3. THE COMMISSIONER OF THE OFFICE  OF  GENERAL  SERVICES,  IN  COLLAB-
 ORATION  WITH THE CHIEF DISABILITY OFFICER, SHALL PROMULGATE REGULATIONS
 IN ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION, INCLUDING,  BUT
 NOT  LIMITED  TO,  SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE DIMENSIONS OF SUCH ADULT
 CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.
   § 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

co-Sponsors

View additional co-sponsors

2025-S4042A - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A6219
Law Section:: Civil Rights Law
Laws Affected:: Add §79-r, Civ Rts L; add §148, Pub Bldg L
Versions Introduced in 2023-2024 Legislative Session:: S7697, A8373

2025-S4042A - Summary

2025-S4042A - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S4042A

SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the civil rights law and the public buildings law, in
relation to enacting the "traveling 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. Individuals
cannot participate in society when they do not have a dignified way to
use the restroom. Changing tables and toilets serve similar functions-
they both allow individuals to have a dignified way to relieve them-
selves and clean up afterwards. Both require privacy and safety to
adequately serve their function. And, both result in similar conse-
quences when they are inaccessible; one either compromises their own
physical health and dignity by allowing caregivers to resort to changing
those in their care in spaces that may be unsanitary or unsafe, such as
bathroom floors, or they simply choose to avoid public spaces altogeth-
er.

Lying exposed on a cold, wet, and dirty restroom floor is not only bad
for one's mental health, but also potentially their physical health.
Changing stations also minimize contact with contaminated surfaces,
lowering the chance of infections and viruses. Additionally, tables must
be height-adjustable to make this accommodation accessible to every
person with disabilities who vary in ability, height, and weight, and
allow an easy, safe transfer from a wheelchair.

The United States doesn't have a federal mandate requiring adult-sized
changing stations in public restrooms. The Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) which passed in 1990, serves as a landmark civil rights law
aimed at ensuring equal access for people with disabilities. The ADA set
forth requirements for public spaces to implement accessibility elements
such as ramps, mobility devices, and more. Adult-sized changing tables
are as much a part of accessible toileting as grab bars and toilet
stalls that can accommodate wheelchairs.

Unfortunately, adult changing accommodations were not included in the
act, making it imperative for New York State to pass legislation ensur-
ing that public buildings are completely accessible to disabled New
Yorkers. The "Traveling with Dignity" bill seeks to address these gaps,
making it clear that access to adequate restroom facilities is not mere-
ly a matter of convenience; it is a fundamental civil right.  By mandat-
ing the installation of adult changing stations in public spaces, this
bill recognizes that dignity is a civil right-one that allows adults
with disabilities to visit movie theaters, museums, convention centers,
and other public venues with the same ease and comfort as their able-
bodied peers. It acknowledges that every individual, regardless of their
physical abilities, should have access to clean, safe, and private
facilities. This legislation is not just about compliance; it is about
affirming the inherent dignity of all people and ensuring that every New
Yorker can participate in society fully and with respect.

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2023-2024: S7697B/A8373 - Died in Finance/Died in Ways & Means

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None to the State.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.
References:
* Health & Human Rights Journal, No Dignity on the Floor: A Human Rights
Argument for Adult-Sized Changing Tables in Public Restrooms in the
United States, HTTPS://WWW.NCHI.NLM.NIH.GOVIPMCIARTICLES/PMC10309150/
* Wasserstrom Blog, Adult Changing Stations Are a Necessity for Inclu-
sive Public Buildings, HTTPS://WWWWASSERSTROM.COIVI/BLOG/2024/07/24/
ADULT-CHANGINE-STATIONS-ARE-A-NECESSITY-FOR-INCLUSIVE- PUBLIC-BUIL-
DINGSRLSTSITD- AFMBOODIVIMCFXYLTS3BWI4YGQZHYK8OL
LSQO5FR3GHBWYW55CS458JEVT

2025-S4042A - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                  4042--A
 
                        2025-2026 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             January 31, 2025
                                ___________
 
 Introduced by Sens. HARCKHAM, ASHBY, HINCHEY, LIU, MARTINS, MAY, RHOADS,
   ROLISON,  SCARCELLA-SPANTON,  WEBB,  WEBER  --  read twice and ordered
   printed, and when printed to be committed to the Committee on Disabil-
   ities -- recommitted to the Committee on  Disabilities  in  accordance
   with  Senate  Rule  6,  sec.  8 -- committee discharged, bill amended,
   ordered reprinted as amended and recommitted to said committee
 
 AN ACT to amend the civil rights law and the public  buildings  law,  in
   relation to enacting the "traveling with dignity act"
 
   THE  PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section 1. Short title. This act shall be known and may  be  cited  as
 the "traveling with dignity act".
   §  2.  The civil rights law is amended by adding a new section 79-r to
 read as follows:
   § 79-R. ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.  1. AS USED  IN  THIS  SECTION,
 THE FOLLOWING TERMS SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING MEANINGS:
   (A)  "ADULT  CHANGING  ACCOMMODATION"  MEANS A HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE ADULT
 CHANGING TABLE THAT IS FOR USE BY PERSONS  WITH  DISABILITIES  WHO  NEED
 HELP WITH DIAPERING.
   (B)  "COVERED  FACILITY" MEANS A COMMERCIAL PLACE OF PUBLIC AMUSEMENT,
 INCLUDING AUDITORIUMS, THEATRES, CONVENTION CENTERS,  EXHIBITION  HALLS,
 PERMANENT  AMUSEMENT  PARKS,  AND  SPORTS  ARENAS, FOR WHICH THE MAXIMUM
 OCCUPANCY IS DETERMINED TO BE TWO THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED OR MORE PEOPLE.
   (C) "DISABILITY" SHALL HAVE THE SAME MEANING AS PROVIDED FOR IN SUBDI-
 VISION TWENTY-ONE OF SECTION TWO HUNDRED  NINETY-TWO  OF  THE  EXECUTIVE
 LAW.
   2.  ALL SINGLE-OCCUPANCY BATHROOMS LOCATED IN COVERED FACILITIES SHALL
 INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT  LEAST  ONE  ADULT  CHANGING  ACCOMMODATION  FOR
 PERSONS  WITH A PHYSICAL DISABILITY THAT IS ACCESSIBLE TO INDIVIDUALS OF
 ANY GENDER WHEN THE FACILITY IS OPEN TO THE  PUBLIC,  AND  SHALL  ENSURE
 THAT SUCH BATHROOM SHALL BE CLEARLY DESIGNATED BY THE POSTING OF SUCH ON
 
  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD08285-03-6

 S. 4042--A                          2
 
 OR  NEAR  THE  ENTRY  DOOR  OF EACH BATHROOM, AND, IF THE FACILITY HAS A
 CENTRAL DIRECTORY, SHALL ENSURE THAT THE CENTRAL DIRECTORY INDICATES THE
 LOCATION OF THE ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION, PROVIDED THAT:
   (A)  COVERED  FACILITIES  NEWLY CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER JANUARY FIRST,
 TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SEVEN SHALL  COMPLY  WITH  THE  PROVISIONS  OF  THIS
 SECTION AT THE TIME OF CONSTRUCTION;
   (B)  EXISTING  COVERED FACILITIES RENOVATED ON OR AFTER JANUARY FIRST,
 TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SEVEN, SHALL COMPLY  WITH  THE  PROVISIONS  OF  THIS
 SECTION AT THE TIME OF RENOVATION; AND
   (C)  ANY  OTHER  EXISTING  COVERED  FACILITY  SHALL  COMPLY  WITH  THE
 PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION NO LATER THAN  JANUARY  FIRST,  TWO  THOUSAND
 THIRTY-FOUR.
   3.  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF  THE  OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES, IN COLLAB-
 ORATION WITH THE CHIEF DISABILITY OFFICER, SHALL PROMULGATE  REGULATIONS
 IN  ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION, INCLUDING, BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO, SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE DIMENSIONS  OF  SUCH  ADULT
 CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.
   §  3.  The public buildings law is amended by adding a new section 148
 to read as follows:
   § 148. ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS. 1. AS USED IN THIS SECTION:
   (A) "STATE AGENCY" MEANS ANY STATE DEPARTMENT, OFFICE, BOARD,  BUREAU,
 COMMISSION,    AGENCY,   OR   ANY  PUBLIC  AUTHORITY  OR  PUBLIC BENEFIT
 CORPORATION AT LEAST ONE OF WHOSE MEMBERS IS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR;
   (B) "STATE-OWNED BUILDING" MEANS ANY BUILDING OWNED BY A STATE  AGENCY
 USED FOR OFFICIAL STATE BUSINESS;
   (C)  "SINGLE-OCCUPANCY  BATHROOM" MEANS A BATHROOM INTENDED FOR USE BY
 NO MORE  THAN ONE OCCUPANT AT A TIME OR FOR FAMILY OR ASSISTED  USE  AND
 WHICH HAS A DOOR FOR ENTRY INTO AND EGRESS FROM THE BATHROOM THAT MAY BE
 LOCKED BY THE OCCUPANT TO ENSURE PRIVACY AND SECURITY; AND
   (D)  "ADULT  CHANGING  ACCOMMODATION"  MEANS A HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE ADULT
 CHANGING TABLE THAT IS FOR USE BY PERSONS  WITH  DISABILITIES  WHO  NEED
 HELP WITH DIAPERING.
   2.  EACH  STATE  AGENCY  SHALL  ENSURE  THAT ALL STATE-OWNED BUILDINGS
 DETERMINED BY THE COMMISSIONER OF THE OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES  TO  BE
 OPEN  TO THE PUBLIC SHALL HAVE AT LEAST ONE SINGLE-OCCUPANCY BATHROOM IN
 SUCH BUILDING WITH AN ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION BY JANUARY FIRST, TWO
 THOUSAND THIRTY.
   3. THE COMMISSIONER OF THE OFFICE  OF  GENERAL  SERVICES,  IN  COLLAB-
 ORATION  WITH THE CHIEF DISABILITY OFFICER, SHALL PROMULGATE REGULATIONS
 IN ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION, INCLUDING,  BUT
 NOT  LIMITED  TO,  SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE DIMENSIONS OF SUCH ADULT
 CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.
   § 4. This act shall take effect immediately.

co-Sponsors

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2025-S4042B (ACTIVE) - Details

See Assembly Version of this Bill:: A6219
Law Section:: Civil Rights Law
Laws Affected:: Add §79-r, Civ Rts L; add §148, Pub Bldg L
Versions Introduced in 2023-2024 Legislative Session:: S7697, A8373

2025-S4042B (ACTIVE) - Summary

2025-S4042B (ACTIVE) - Sponsor Memo

                                 
BILL NUMBER: S4042B

SPONSOR: HARCKHAM
 
TITLE OF BILL:

An act to amend the civil rights law and the public buildings law, in
relation to enacting the "traveling 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. Individuals
cannot participate in society when they do not have a dignified way to
use the restroom. Changing tables and toilets serve similar functions-
they both allow individuals to have a dignified way to relieve them-
selves and clean up afterwards. Both require privacy and safety to
adequately serve their function. And, both result in similar conse-
quences when they are inaccessible; one either compromises their own
physical health and dignity by allowing caregivers to resort to changing
those in their care in spaces that may be unsanitary or unsafe, such as
bathroom floors, or they simply choose to avoid public spaces altogeth-
er.

Lying exposed on a cold, wet, and dirty restroom floor is not only bad
for one's mental health, but also potentially their physical health.
Changing stations also minimize contact with contaminated surfaces,
lowering the chance of infections and viruses. Additionally, tables must
be height-adjustable to make this accommodation accessible to every
person with disabilities who vary in ability, height, and weight, and
allow an easy, safe transfer from a wheelchair.

The United States doesn't have a federal mandate requiring adult-sized
changing stations in public restrooms. The Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) which passed in 1990, serves as a landmark civil rights law
aimed at ensuring equal access for people with disabilities. The ADA set
forth requirements for public spaces to implement accessibility elements
such as ramps, mobility devices, and more. Adult-sized changing tables
are as much a part of accessible toileting as grab bars and toilet
stalls that can accommodate wheelchairs.  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. The "Traveling with
Dignity" bill seeks to address these gaps, making it clear that access
to adequate restroom facilities is not merely a matter of convenience;
it is a fundamental civil right.

By mandating the installation of adult changing stations in public spac-
es, this bill recognizes that dignity is a civil rightone that allows
adults with disabilities to visit movie theaters, museums, convention
centers, and other public venues with the same ease and comfort as their
able-bodied peers. It acknowledges that every individual, regardless of
their physical abilities, should have access to clean, safe, and private
facilities. This legislation is not just about compliance; it is about
affirming the inherent dignity of all people and ensuring that every New
Yorker can participate in society fully and with respect.

References:

* Health & Human Rights Journal, No Dignity on the Floor: A Human Rights
Argument for Adult-Sized Changing Tables in Public Restrooms in the
United States,  
HTTPS://WWW.NCBI.NLM.NIH.GOV/PMC/ ARTICLES/PMC10309150/

* Wasserstrom Blog, Adult Changing Stations Are a Necessity for Inclu-
sive Public Buildings,  
HTTPS ://WWW.
WASSERSTROM.COM/BLOG/2024/07/24/ADULT-CHANGING-STATIONS-ARE-ANECES
SITY-FOR-INCLUSIVE-PUBLICBUILDINGS/?SRSLTIC1=-AFINBOORJMMCFXVUS3BWI4YGQZ
HYK8OLLSQ05FR3 GHBW 55CS458 JEVT

 
LEGISLATIVE HISTORY:

2023-2024: S7697B/A8373 - Died in Finance/Died in Ways & Means

 
FISCAL IMPLICATIONS:

None to the State.

 
EFFECTIVE DATE:
This act shall take effect immediately.

2025-S4042B (ACTIVE) - Bill Text download pdf

                             
                     S T A T E   O F   N E W   Y O R K
 ________________________________________________________________________
 
                                  4042--B
     Cal. No. 1049
 
                        2025-2026 Regular Sessions
 
                             I N  S E N A T E
 
                             January 31, 2025
                                ___________
 
 Introduced  by  Sens.  HARCKHAM, ADDABBO, ASHBY, HINCHEY, LIU, MARTINEZ,
   MARTINS, MAY, RHOADS, ROLISON, SCARCELLA-SPANTON, WEBB, WEBER --  read
   twice  and  ordered  printed,  and when printed to be committed to the
   Committee on Disabilities -- recommitted to the Committee on Disabili-
   ties in accordance with Senate Rule 6, sec. 8 -- committee discharged,
   bill amended, ordered reprinted as amended  and  recommitted  to  said
   committee  --  reported favorably from said committee and committed to
   the Committee on Finance -- reported favorably  from  said  committee,
   ordered to first and second report, ordered to a third reading, passed
   by  Senate and delivered to the Assembly, recalled, vote reconsidered,
   restored to third reading, amended and  ordered  reprinted,  retaining
   its place in the order of third reading
 
 AN  ACT  to  amend the civil rights law and the public buildings law, in
   relation to enacting the "traveling with dignity act"
 
   THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, REPRESENTED IN SENATE AND  ASSEM-
 BLY, DO ENACT AS FOLLOWS:
 
   Section  1.  Short  title. This act shall be known and may be cited as
 the "traveling with dignity act".
   § 2. The civil rights law is amended by adding a new section  79-r  to
 read as follows:
   §  79-R.  ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.   1. AS USED IN THIS SECTION,
 THE FOLLOWING TERMS SHALL HAVE THE FOLLOWING MEANINGS:
   (A) "ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION"  MEANS  A  HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE  ADULT
 CHANGING  TABLE  THAT  IS  FOR USE BY PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES WHO NEED
 HELP WITH DIAPERING.
   (B) "COVERED FACILITY" MEANS A COMMERCIAL PLACE OF  PUBLIC  AMUSEMENT,
 INCLUDING  AUDITORIUMS,  THEATRES, CONVENTION CENTERS, EXHIBITION HALLS,
 PERMANENT AMUSEMENT PARKS, AND SPORTS  ARENAS,  FOR  WHICH  THE  MAXIMUM
 OCCUPANCY IS DETERMINED TO BE TWO THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED OR MORE PEOPLE.

  EXPLANATION--Matter in ITALICS (underscored) is new; matter in brackets
                       [ ] is old law to be omitted.
                                                            LBD08285-05-6
 S. 4042--B                          2

 
   (C) "DISABILITY" SHALL HAVE THE SAME MEANING AS PROVIDED FOR IN SUBDI-
 VISION  TWENTY-ONE  OF  SECTION  TWO HUNDRED NINETY-TWO OF THE EXECUTIVE
 LAW.
   2.  A  PERSON, PRIVATE FIRM, ORGANIZATION, OR CORPORATION THAT OWNS OR
 MANAGES A COVERED FACILITY SHALL INSTALL AND MAINTAIN AT LEAST ONE ADULT
 CHANGING ACCOMMODATION FOR PERSONS WITH A PHYSICAL  DISABILITY  THAT  IS
 ACCESSIBLE TO INDIVIDUALS OF ANY GENDER WHEN THE FACILITY IS OPEN TO THE
 PUBLIC,  AND SHALL ENSURE THAT SUCH BATHROOM SHALL BE CLEARLY DESIGNATED
 BY THE POSTING OF SUCH ON OR NEAR THE ENTRY DOOR OF EACH BATHROOM,  AND,
 IF  THE  FACILITY HAS A CENTRAL DIRECTORY, SHALL ENSURE THAT THE CENTRAL
 DIRECTORY INDICATES THE LOCATION OF THE  ADULT  CHANGING  ACCOMMODATION,
 PROVIDED THAT:
   (A)  COVERED  FACILITIES  NEWLY CONSTRUCTED ON OR AFTER JANUARY FIRST,
 TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SEVEN SHALL  COMPLY  WITH  THE  PROVISIONS  OF  THIS
 SECTION AT THE TIME OF CONSTRUCTION;
   (B)  EXISTING  COVERED FACILITIES RENOVATED ON OR AFTER JANUARY FIRST,
 TWO THOUSAND TWENTY-SEVEN, SHALL COMPLY  WITH  THE  PROVISIONS  OF  THIS
 SECTION AT THE TIME OF RENOVATION; AND
   (C)  ANY  OTHER  EXISTING  COVERED  FACILITY  SHALL  COMPLY  WITH  THE
 PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION NO LATER THAN  JANUARY  FIRST,  TWO  THOUSAND
 THIRTY-SIX.
   3.  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF  THE  OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES, IN COLLAB-
 ORATION WITH THE CHIEF DISABILITY OFFICER, SHALL PROMULGATE  REGULATIONS
 IN  ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION, INCLUDING, BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO, SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE DIMENSIONS  OF  SUCH  ADULT
 CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.
   4.  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF  THE OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES MAY GRANT AN
 EXEMPTION FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF  THIS  SECTION  IF  THE  COMMISSIONER
 DETERMINES THAT:
   (A) INSTALLATION OF AN ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION IS NOT FEASIBLE;
   (B) INSTALLATION WOULD RESULT IN NONCOMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH
 DISABILITIES ACT OR ANY OTHER APPLICABLE ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS;
   (C)  THE TOTAL COST OF THE CONSTRUCTION OR RENOVATION PROJECT DOES NOT
 EXCEED TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS; OR
   (D) INSTALLATION WOULD DESTROY THE HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE OF A HISTORIC
 PROPERTY.
   § 3. The public buildings law is amended by adding a new  section  148
 to read as follows:
   § 148. ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS. 1. AS USED IN THIS SECTION:
   (A)  "STATE AGENCY" MEANS ANY STATE DEPARTMENT, OFFICE, BOARD, BUREAU,
 COMMISSION,   AGENCY,   OR   ANY  PUBLIC  AUTHORITY  OR  PUBLIC  BENEFIT
 CORPORATION AT LEAST ONE OF WHOSE MEMBERS IS APPOINTED BY THE GOVERNOR;
   (B)  "STATE-OWNED BUILDING" MEANS ANY BUILDING OWNED BY A STATE AGENCY
 USED FOR OFFICIAL STATE BUSINESS;
   (C) "SINGLE-OCCUPANCY BATHROOM" MEANS A BATHROOM INTENDED FOR  USE  BY
 NO  MORE   THAN ONE OCCUPANT AT A TIME OR FOR FAMILY OR ASSISTED USE AND
 WHICH HAS A DOOR FOR ENTRY INTO AND EGRESS FROM THE BATHROOM THAT MAY BE
 LOCKED BY THE OCCUPANT TO ENSURE PRIVACY AND SECURITY; AND
   (D) "ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION"  MEANS  A  HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE  ADULT
 CHANGING  TABLE  THAT  IS  FOR USE BY PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES WHO NEED
 HELP WITH DIAPERING.
   2. EACH STATE AGENCY  SHALL  ENSURE  THAT  ALL  STATE-OWNED  BUILDINGS
 DETERMINED  BY  THE COMMISSIONER OF THE OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES TO BE
 REGULARLY OPEN TO, OR UTILIZED BY, THE GENERAL PUBLIC WITH A MAXIMUM  OF
 OCCUPANCY OF NOT LESS THAN TWO THOUSAND FIVE HUNDRED SHALL HAVE AT LEAST
 ONE  SINGLE-OCCUPANCY  BATHROOM  IN SUCH BUILDING WITH AN ADULT CHANGING
 S. 4042--B                          3
 
 ACCOMMODATION BY JANUARY FIRST,  TWO  THOUSAND  THIRTY-SEVEN,  PROVIDED,
 HOWEVER,  THAT  IN  SUCH INSTANCES IN WHICH THE FIRE CODE DOES NOT SET A
 MAXIMUM OCCUPANCY OF A STATE-OWNED BUILDING,  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF  THE
 OFFICE  OF  GENERAL SERVICES SHALL HAVE THE DISCRETION TO DETERMINE THAT
 IT IS IN THE PUBLIC INTEREST TO REQUIRE THAT SUCH  STATE-OWNED  BUILDING
 SHALL BE SUBJECT TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION.
   3.  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF  THE  OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES, IN COLLAB-
 ORATION WITH THE CHIEF DISABILITY OFFICER, SHALL PROMULGATE  REGULATIONS
 IN  ORDER TO EFFECTUATE THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS SECTION, INCLUDING, BUT
 NOT LIMITED TO, SPECIFICATIONS REGARDING THE DIMENSIONS  OF  SUCH  ADULT
 CHANGING ACCOMMODATIONS.
   4.  THE  COMMISSIONER  OF  THE OFFICE OF GENERAL SERVICES MAY GRANT AN
 EXEMPTION FROM THE REQUIREMENTS OF  THIS  SECTION  IF  THE  COMMISSIONER
 DETERMINES THAT:
   (A) INSTALLATION OF AN ADULT CHANGING ACCOMMODATION IS NOT FEASIBLE;
   (B) INSTALLATION WOULD RESULT IN NONCOMPLIANCE WITH THE AMERICANS WITH
 DISABILITIES ACT OR ANY OTHER APPLICABLE ACCESSIBILITY STANDARDS;
   (C)  THE TOTAL COST OF THE CONSTRUCTION OR RENOVATION PROJECT DOES NOT
 EXCEED TWENTY THOUSAND DOLLARS;
   (D) INSTALLATION WOULD DESTROY THE HISTORIC SIGNIFICANCE OF A HISTORIC
 PROPERTY; OR
   (E) THE BUILDING OR FACILITY IS NOT REGULARLY OPEN TO, OR UTILIZED BY,
 THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
   § 4. This act shall take effect immediately and  shall  apply  to  all
 public  works  bids  and  contracts solicited on or after such effective
 date; provided, however, this  act  shall  not  apply  retroactively  to
 previously  issued or existing public works contracts, with the state or
 any municipal corporation, public benefit corporation, or public body.

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Senate Bill S4042B

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Finance Committee Vote: May 12, 2026

Mar 31, 2026 - Disabilities Committee Vote

Disabilities Committee Vote: Mar 31, 2026

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2025-S4042 - Details

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