Congressman Rob Menendez (D-NJ) and a bipartisan group of lawmakers recently introduced the bipartisan Family-Friendly Facilities Tax Credit Act, which incentivizes small businesses nationwide to install diaper changing stations in family restrooms.
Too often, families with young children are unable to access diaper changing stations during family outings. While small businesses want to provide family-friendly accommodations for all members of their communities, renovating public restrooms or building an additional family restroom can be cost prohibitive, Menendez said.
“Every parent and caregiver deserve the basic dignity of being able to care for their child in a safe and clean space, no matter where they are,” Menendez said.
“As the father of two young kids and a member of the Dads Caucus, I’m grateful to work with my colleagues to solve this challenge for parents and families and support small businesses nationwide,” Menendez said. “This is about more than just having a place to change a diaper — it’s about accessibility and equity, too.”
The legislation amends the Internal Revenue Code to create a tax credit for small businesses to install a diaper changing station in their family restrooms, covering up to 70% of the expenses paid or incurred by the business through the credit. Small businesses with annual revenues under $5 million can claim up to $10,000 per location through the credit.
Other congressional sponsors of the legislation are Representatives Ryan Mackenzie (R-PA), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA), and Brittany Pettersen (D-CO).
“As a husband and father to a 1-year-old, with another on the way, I understand the challenge of finding safe and accessible changing facilities when my family is on the go,” Mackenzie said. “Families deserve these accommodations, but many small businesses may struggle with the costs of materials and installation.”
Gomez, who is also the father of a toddler and the founder of the Dads Caucus, said: "I’ve changed enough diapers to know how essential it is to have access to safe diaper-changing stations when the time calls for it. Too often, parents are forced to improvise in unsafe or unsanitary conditions.”
Pettersen said, “As a mom I know firsthand how difficult and anxiety-inducing it can be when you’re at work or out grocery shopping and you can’t find a convenient, safe spot to change your baby. Every parent deserves the peace of mind that comes with knowing they can care for their child's most basic needs no matter where they are.”
“I’m grateful to join my fellow parents in Congress to find ways to encourage small businesses to install diaper-changing equipment so that our communities are a welcoming, safe place for all families,” Pettersen said.
The bill is supported by the National Diaper Bank Network and Small Business Majority.
For full bill text, click here.
