Potty parity in the United States

Potty parity in the United States refers to laws and policies granting women the right to equitable access to restrooms in public places and workplaces.

[1] Prior to the passage of potty parity legislation, women's restrooms in many workplaces and public places were either absent or insufficient.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, during the Progressive Era, almost all states and territories passed laws granting women workers the right to have toilets and washrooms in their workplaces.

"[25] In Illinois, the Equitable Restrooms Act institutes standards to achieve potty parity, including "At least one women's toilet stall for every 200 persons in the maximum legal capacity of the place of public accommodation".

[27] In 1893, Minnesota passed a manufacturing law stating that "Properly screened and ventilated dressing rooms and closets shall be provided in all factories, mills, and other buildings in which both sexes are employed.

[1] As of 2024, the Missouri Code of State Regulations stipulates that "The employer's policies and practices must assure the appropriate physical facilities to both sexes.

The code also states that the bona fide occupational qualification exception to Missouri discrimination law is not applicable to "the necessity of providing separate facilities of a personal nature, such as restrooms or dressing rooms.

"[1] In 1886, New York passed manufacturing legislation stating that "Provision is made for separate closets and dressing rooms for women in establishments where they are employed.

[17] In 1891, Ohio passed legislation regulating manufacturing that stated that inspectors "can also demand suitable closet arrangements for the sexes, with toilet and dressing rooms for females on the floors on which they work.

"[1] In 1889, Pennsylvania passed manufacturing legislation stating that "Suitable and proper wash and dressing rooms and closets must be provided where women are employed.

"[1] In 1894, Rhode Island passed manufacturing legislation stating that "Proper closets shall be provided in all places where women and girls work".