H.R.248 - Baby Changing on Board Act (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.248, the Baby Changing on Board Act, mandates that Amtrak install baby changing tables in at least one restroom in each car of covered passenger rail trains, including ADA-compliant restrooms. The bill defines key terms like 'ADA-compliant restroom,' 'baby changing table,' and 'covered passenger rail train.' The Act aims to improve convenience for parents traveling with young children on Amtrak trains.
Expected Effects
This Act will require Amtrak to retrofit or include baby changing tables in new passenger rail cars. This will likely increase the accessibility and convenience of train travel for families with young children. The Act also specifies signage requirements to clearly indicate the presence of these tables.
Potential Benefits 4/5
- Enhanced convenience for parents traveling with infants and toddlers.
- Increased accessibility for families, potentially encouraging more train travel.
- Improved hygiene and sanitation for diaper changing.
- Promotes family-friendly travel policies.
- Supports inclusivity by including baby changing tables in ADA-compliant restrooms.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with installation and maintenance of baby changing tables, which could be passed on to passengers.
- Possible space constraints within existing restrooms.
- Limited impact, as it only affects Amtrak trains and not other modes of transportation.
- The definition of 'covered passenger rail train' excludes trains Amtrak operates but does not own, potentially limiting the scope of the Act.
- May lead to debates about similar requirements for other public transportation systems.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment 4/5
The Act appears to align with the General Welfare Clause of the Constitution, as it aims to improve the convenience and well-being of families using public transportation. Specifically, the clause 'to promote the general Welfare' (Preamble) supports legislation intended to benefit the population. The Act does not appear to infringe upon any specific rights or limitations outlined in the Constitution or its amendments.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to citizens. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).