Across the state of Iowa and our nation there is an unseen, unspoken of issue, a lack of accessible restrooms for individuals with disabilities. Current regulations set by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), state that handicap accessible restrooms are only required to accommodate the space needed for a wheelchair user to comfortably access a restroom. These standards do not address the large segment of the disability community that cannot properly utilize current facilities.

Standard accessible restrooms do not meet the needs of individuals who are beyond the weight limit to safely use a traditional changing table, yet still require the use of incontinence products. Some need assistance with changes by a caregiver. Other simply require more space, privacy and a multi-gender restroom.

Iowans with disabilities across our state are not able to use ADA provided facilities in a safe, private and dignified manner. These individuals are changed on unhygienic public restroom floors, on the lap of their caretakers, or in the back of vehicles. Some may go unchanged, forced to sit soiled until an appropriate place can be located.

Changing Spaces Iowa is committed to improving conditions and access for individuals with disabilities through education and legislative action.