To direct the Architect of the Capitol to install an adult changing room in the Library of Congress and the Capitol Visitor Center.
- Bill Number
- H.R. 7614
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Congress
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-02-21: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.
- Last Updated
- 2026-06-03T08:08:47Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose of the Legislation
This bill aims to enhance accessibility in key congressional facilities by requiring the installation of specialized restrooms designed for adults who need assistance with changing, such as individuals with disabilities.
Key Provisions
- Installation Requirement: The Architect of the Capitol must install at least one adult changing room in a restroom at both the Library of Congress and the Capitol Visitor Center.
- Definition of Adult Changing Room: This is defined as a private, fully accessible restroom featuring:
- An adult-sized changing bench.
- Safety rails attached to a secure surface.
- A mounted or movable hoist (a device to lift and transfer individuals safely).
- Enough space to accommodate one or two caregivers.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
The bill introduces a new mandate for these specific accessibility features in the named facilities. It does not amend prior laws but builds on broader accessibility standards, such as those under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), by requiring targeted installations in high-traffic public spaces within the Capitol complex.
Potential Impacts
- On Government Agencies: The Architect of the Capitol will handle design, installation, and maintenance, potentially involving costs for construction and equipment. This could set a precedent for similar upgrades in other federal buildings.
- On Citizens: Improves access for visitors, researchers, and staff at the Library of Congress and Capitol Visitor Center who require caregiver assistance, promoting dignity and independence for people with disabilities.
- On International Relations: No direct impact, as the bill focuses on domestic facilities.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- Individuals with Disabilities and Caregivers: Primary beneficiaries, gaining better facilities for personal care needs.
- Visitors and Staff: Includes tourists, scholars, and congressional employees using these public spaces.
- Architect of the Capitol: Responsible for implementation and ongoing oversight.
- Congress: Involved in funding approval and policy enforcement through the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: Aligns with federal accessibility laws like the ADA by mandating inclusive facilities, potentially reducing liability for inadequate accommodations. No conflicts with existing statutes are evident.
- Constitutional: Supports equal protection principles under the U.S. Constitution by addressing accessibility for disabled individuals in public government spaces.
- Political: Bipartisan introduction (by Rep. Griffith, a Republican, and Rep. Morelle, a Democrat) highlights cross-party support for disability rights, though it may involve debates over federal spending in a divided Congress.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Griffith, H. Morgan [R-VA-9]
Cosponsors (1)
Rep. Morelle, Joseph D. [D-NY-25]
Recent Actions
- 2026-02-21: Referred to the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management.
- 2026-02-20: Referred to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.
- 2026-02-20: Introduced in House
- 2026-02-20: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- To direct the Architect of the Capitol to install an adult changing room in the Library of Congress and the Capitol Visitor Center. — issued 2026-02-20 — PDF (2 pages)