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 such as 'ADA-compliant restroom,' 'baby changing table,' and 'covered passenger rail train' to ensure clarity and proper implementation. The Act aims to improve convenience and accessibility for parents traveling with young children on Amtrak trains.
Expected Effects
This bill will require Amtrak to install and maintain baby changing tables on its trains. This will likely lead to increased accessibility and convenience for parents traveling with infants and toddlers. The Act will amend Title 49 of the United States Code to include these requirements.
Potential Benefits
- Increased convenience for parents traveling with infants and toddlers.
- Improved accessibility for families, making train travel more appealing.
- Enhanced family-friendliness of Amtrak services.
- Compliance with ADA standards by including changing tables in ADA-compliant restrooms.
- Clear signage indicating the presence of baby changing tables.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential costs associated with installation and maintenance of baby changing tables, which could be passed on to passengers.
- Possible space constraints in existing restrooms.
- Limited impact as it only affects Amtrak-owned and operated trains.
- The bill does not address cleanliness or hygiene standards for the changing tables.
- Potential delays in the procurement of new trains as Amtrak works to comply with the new requirements.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution (Preamble), as it aims to improve the travel experience for families. Congress has the power to regulate interstate commerce (Article I, Section 8), which includes the operation of passenger rail services like Amtrak. The bill does not appear to infringe on any specific constitutional rights or limitations.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).