Great news for accessibility in Illinois this month: House Bill 4379 (HB 4379) has been signed into law, expanding requirements for adult changing tables in public buildings across the state. Learn more about the legislation and what it means for Illinois buildings:

What is House Bill 4379 (HB4379)?

House Bill 4379 was sponsored by State Representative Amy Briel and State Senator Lakesia Collins and was officially signed into law by Governor J.B. Pritzker on August 7, 2026.

The new law amends Illinois’ existing Equitable Restrooms Act, which was amended in 2024 to add requirements for adult changing stations in certain state-owned buildings, including signage identifying the location of the changing station.

HB 4379 expands these original accessibility requirements, helping make adult changing accommodations available in many more public spaces throughout Illinois.

Chicago skyline through a window

What Does this Mean for Illinois Buildings?

The new law extends adult changing station requirements beyond certain state-owned buildings to include additional public buildings covered by the legislation, such as schools, museums, parks, and entertainment venues.

According to the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, more than 1.5 million people in Illinois live with a disability. Expanding access to adult changing tables can make it easier for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers to participate in everyday activities and spend more time in their communities.

By providing a safe, dignified place for restroom care, HB 4379 represents another important step toward making Illinois’ public spaces more accessible and welcoming for people of all abilities.

Where are adult changing tables required in Illinois?

The law applies to two types of facilities:

State-Owned Buildings

Outside of Illinois capitol building

State-owned buildings include:

  • State Capitol Building
  • State park campground with plumbing and electricity at toilet locations
  • State park visitor center with plumbing and electricity at toilet locations
  • Rest stop located on an interstate highway

Public Buildings

Public buildings include:

  • Establishment with the capacity to serve 1,500 or more people per day that is not a place of education
    Two women in an art gallery, one pushing the other in a wheelchair
  • Building or structure used for exhibition or entertainment, including,
    • Movie theaters
    • Performance theater
    • Concert hall
    • Convention center
    • Store that is larger than 40,000 square feet 
  • Building or structure used for public display or collection, including museums, libraries or galleries
  • Designated buildings within recreational spaces, including parks, zoos and amusement parks
  • Designated buildings at educational facilities designed to serve 1,500 or more students per semester
  • Airport terminals and bus stations
  • Hospitals, hospital-related outpatient clinics and rehabilitation facilities

Ascent Universal Changing Table closed in a modern bathroom setting

What are the restroom requirements under HB4379?

Under HB 4379, public buildings must ensure that at least one public restroom is designated as an adult changing station. The law also establishes requirements for the accessibility, upkeep, and visibility of these facilities.

Building owners or operators must:

  • Provide an adult changing station in one or more public restrooms. The table must: 
    • Be powered and height-adjustable
    • Include adjustable safety rails on both sides and a safety belt
    • Lower to 17 inches or less and raise to at least 38 inches
    • Measure at least 30 inches wide and 70 inches long
    • Support at least 400 pounds
  • Provide sufficient floor space for the adult changing station to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements
  • Maintain, repair and replace the adult changing table as necessary to keep it available for use
  • Clean the adult changing station at the same frequency as the building’s other public restrooms
  • Clearly identify its location with conspicuous signage at the entrance to each restroom
  • Include the adult changing station’s location in the building’s central directory, if a directory exists

Read more: Understanding adult changing stations requirements including ADA, ICC A117.1, and State Laws

When Does this Act Take Effect?

HB 4379 sets different compliance dates for new construction vs. renovations:

  • New construction: Adult changing tables are required in public or state-owned buildings constructed on or after January 1, 2029
  • Renovations: Beginning January 1, 2031, the requirement also applies to qualifying public and state-owned buildings undergoing renovations estimated at $10,000 or more when the renovation requires a building permit
Ascent universal changing table with mother and son with disabilities

A Step Forward for Inclusive Design

HB 4379 expands access to adult changing tables across Illinois, helping make public spaces more accessible for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers. 
With requirements beginning in 2029, now is the time to understand the law and plan for more inclusive restrooms. Explore Sova’s Ascent universal changing table to get ahead of the curve!

Lauren Keep

Lauren Keep — Integrated Communications Specialist

Lauren Keep serves as Sova’s Communications Specialist, creating and managing content across our website, blog, and social media channels. She works behind the scenes to keep our messaging clear, informative, and aligned with our brand—turning technical product details into accessible content that resonates with industry professionals and end users alike.
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