Legislation requiring signs to let drivers know when highway rest areas and welcome centers have family restrooms was unanimously approved by the General Assembly recently. House Bill 60, sponsored by State Rep. Kevin Raper, R-Cleveland, directs the Tennessee Department of Transportation to place signs along nearby highways for any rest stop that includes family restrooms. These facilities are designed for people who may need extra help, including those with disabilities, older adults, young children and people who need assistance from a caregiver.
“Last year, I became aware of a concern regarding family restrooms at rest stops and welcome centers and the fact that they are incredibly hard to find,” Raper said. “(Currently), the only option is to drive in and check for yourself, which is a burden upon the mentally handicapped (and) the physically handicapped.”
The department will also post a list of rest areas and welcome centers with family restrooms on its website. Signs can include words or symbols to clearly show that a family restroom is available. The transportation department may work with other state agencies to create and install the signs, which must follow federal and state regulations.
Tennessee has state-operated 19 rest stops and 16 welcome centers, 14 of which offer family restrooms. The bill now heads to the governor’s desk for his signature. It will take effect on July 1.
Pictured is State Rep. Kevin Raper, R-Cleveland
