Rhode Island § 37-8-21 - Public Buildings
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 37-8-21 — Public Buildings, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 37-8-21. Public Buildings
R.I. Gen. Laws § 37-8-21
§ 37-8-21. Universal changing stations required in public buildings.
(a) The department of administration shall, by January 1, 2026, adopt regulations requiring any public building that is newly constructed, reconstructed, or remodeled on or after January 1, 2027 to install and maintain at least one universal changing station.
(b) The regulations adopted by the department pursuant to this section shall include the following:
(1) A requirement that the entrance to each universal changing station has conspicuous signage indicating the location of the station;
(2) A requirement that if a public building has a central directory, said central directory shall indicate the location of the universal changing station; and
(3) A requirement that all universal changing stations shall:
(i) Be capable of supporting up to three hundred fifty pounds (350 lbs.);
(ii) Be equipped with a height-adjustable changing table;
(iii) Be located inside a private restroom or in a private stall, enclosed area, or privacy screen within a multi-stall restroom;
(iv) Provide adequate space for assistance; and
(v) Comply with all requirements of the federal Americans with Disabilities Act.
(c) The department may grant an exemption from the requirements of this section if it determines:
(1) The installation would not be feasible;
(2) The installation would result in a failure to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards for access for persons with disabilities;
(3) The cost of the proposed reconstruction or remodeling without the inclusion of the changing table does not exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000);
(4) The installation would destroy the historic significance of a historic property; or
(5) The building is not frequented by the public.
(d) For the purposes of this chapter, “universal changing station” means a changing station within an enclosed restroom facility that is for use by persons of any age who require assistance with diapering and is accessible by persons of any sex.
History of Section.
P.L. 2025, ch. 60, § 1, effective June 13, 2025; P.L. 2025, ch. 61, § 1, effective
June 13, 2025.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 37-8-21
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 37-8-21 cover?
Section 37-8-21 ("Public Buildings") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Rhode Island § 37-8-21?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 37-8-21" (Rhode Island). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 37-8-21 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Rhode Island.