Underwood Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Require Baby Changing Stations in Community Health Centers

WASHINGTON – Rep. Lauren Underwood introduced the Baby Changing in Health Centers Act, bipartisan legislation co-led by Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ-02). The Baby Changing in Health Centers Act would require federally qualified community health centers to provide safe, accessible baby changing tables in public restrooms. The legislation builds on the bipartisan success of Underwood’s Baby Changing on Board Act, which passed the House earlier this year.

Since the first Community Health Centers opened in 1965, the federally supported health center system has provided affordable health care to millions of people. But despite that extensive network of care, many facilities lack adequate baby-changing stations, leaving families without necessary amenities to care for their kids.

“Every parent or caregiver who walks into a community health center should know that they’ll have a clean, accessible, and safe environment to take care of their kids,” said Rep. Underwood. “Our common-sense, bipartisan legislation is a practical and necessary step to make sure families have access to the amenities they need.”

“Our federally qualified health centers are there to help families, and parents should have what they need when they walk through the door,” said Rep. Van Drew. “Having a safe, clean place to change a baby should not be an afterthought. It is something every parent expects and deserves. I am proud to be a colead in this important effort.”

The Baby Changing in Health Centers Act requires the installation of baby-changing tables in public-facing restrooms and the posting of clear signage indicating their location. The legislation also provides $5 million to assist facilities with upgrades. 

The Baby Changing in Health Centers Act is endorsed by MomsRising. 

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