HB 881 Summary

• Establishes the Universal Changing Tables Installation Incentive Grant Program to provide financial assistance to public and private entities in Mississippi for installing universal changing tables in restrooms.

• Grants up to $5,000 per universal changing table installed, with awards made on a first-come, first-served basis subject to available funding and eligibility criteria established by the department.

• Designates the Mississippi Department of Rehabilitation Services to administer the program, receive applications, determine eligibility, adopt rules and regulations, and develop evaluation criteria based on disability population percentages and existing facility availability.

• Prioritizes grant applications for tables that are powered and height-adjustable, installed in single-occupancy gender-neutral restrooms with minimum dimensions of 10 feet by 14.6 feet, and marked with visible signage.

• Allows the Department of Rehabilitation Services to retain up to 1% of annual appropriations for administrative costs and requires collaboration with the Department of Archives and History to protect historic landmark integrity.