Westchester County Executive Signs Law for Diaper Stations in Every Public Bathroom

WHITE PLAINS, NY (October 10, 2025) — Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins signed the Diapers Involve All Parents Regardless of Sex Act, known as the DIAPRS Act, into law Friday, requiring diaper changing stations in all county park bathrooms and on every publicly accessible floor of county-owned buildings.

The bipartisan legislation, passed unanimously by the Westchester County Board of Legislators on Sept. 15, 2025, by a vote of 17-0, aims to make parenting more equitable by providing facilities for fathers, guardians and caregivers who previously lacked access in men’s restrooms.

“Every parent knows that diaper changes do not… happen at the most convenient time,” Jenkins said at a news conference at the Westchester County Center. “For far too long… many fathers, guardians, and caregivers have been left without the proper facilities they need. Not only is that inconvenient, it’s unfair.”

The law, Act No. 2025-174, originated nearly two years ago with the late county legislator Chris Johnson and evolved through co-sponsorship by nearly all legislators, including prime sponsors Erika L. Pierce and Colin D. Smith.

Jenkins, a parent and grandparent, emphasized the shared nature of parenting responsibilities. “This might sound like a small change, but it represents something bigger. It’s about recognizing that parenting is a shared responsibility,” he said.

Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi, who changed diapers for his own children, called it a modern solution. “Times are changing. Modern times require modern solutions,” Gashi said. “I know that my dad… didn’t change very many diapers, allegedly. But with my kids, I changed plenty. With this law, I no longer will have the excuse that I don’t have a safe, clean space.”

Majority Leader David Imamura, a father of young children, recounted his experiences visiting county facilities like parks and Playland. “The number one thing I noticed initially was that there was nowhere to change my kids’ diapers when the time came,” he said. “I would… go to the men’s room, put the pad on the floor and change my son on the floor. Because of this bill… parents will no longer have to do that.”

Legislator Catherine Borgia highlighted the law’s benefits for all genders. “This is not only an important moment for all the dads and grandfathers… but it also is a gift to moms,” she said. “My husband was certainly not going to be willing to lay his children down on the floor of a men’s room.”

Smith stressed equality in childcare. “Historically, fathers have faced practical barriers such as the absence of changing facilities in men’s restrooms that have limited their ability to support their partners in childcare duties,” he said. “Fatherhood merits the same respect and recognition as motherhood.”

Pierce called it a practical win. “Being able to change a diaper on the fly is no small need, and this legislation will help us make certain that every caregiver, regardless of their gender, can do that safely and hygienically,” she said.

Legislator Jen Williams, who represents Jenkins’ district, praised the county’s progressive stance. “We are a progressive county. We are an inclusive county and this piece of legislation, the Diapers Act, is exactly that,” she said. “We are thinking about everyone regardless of race, gender, sex, ability.”

The Department of Public Works and Transportation will identify installation sites and develop an implementation plan, while the Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department — overseeing 18,000 acres and 55 facilities — will inventory restrooms for additions, including family bathrooms where needed.

First Deputy Commissioner Peter Tartaglia noted existing stations in some locations, like the County Center, but stressed the need for broader access. “Babies, moms, dads, and guardians are rejoicing today because we now have a new plan to make sure that all of our visitors have another accommodation,” he said.

Jenkins closed the ceremony by urging residents to report gaps to their legislators. “When you have information, if you see things that are happening, reach out to your county legislator,” he said.

This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.