Issue link: http://psai.uberflip.com/i/1198719
ASSOCIATIONINSIGHT Portable Sanitation Association International News B e t t e r w o r k s i t e s . B e t t e r w e e k e n d s . B e t t e r w o r l d . BIWEEKLY EDITION JANUARY 8, 2020 Page 1 ASSOCIATIONINSIGHT Portable Sanitation Association International News B e t t e r w o r k s i t e s . B e t t e r w e e k e n d s . B e t t e r w o r l d . BIWEEKLY EDITION JANUARY 8, 2020 The Economic Outlook and Its Impact on Portable Sanitation By Karleen Kos, PSAI Executive Director We are a full week into the new year. While many are still finding tinsel in the carpet and pouring leftover eggnog down the sink, others are wondering what 2020 has in store for our industry. Of course, no one knows exactly what will happen, though the recent events in the Middle East, the US election, and the ongoing pressures for growth will keep things interesting. Despite the uncertainty, business owners have to make decisions—and we are, after all, still enjoying the longest expansionary period in US history. So let's look at what the economic indicators that may affect the portable sanitation industry in 2020 are telling us as of today. …Continued on page 2 New Illinois Law Prompts Debate about Baby Changing Stations By Karleen Kos, PSAI Executive Director An amended version of the Illinois law known as the Equitable Restrooms Act (PA 101—293) went into effect on January 1, 2020. The new language requires baby changing stations in "every public building with restrooms open and accessible to the public." The law specifically requires that these stations be accessible to both men and women and that signage be placed at or near the entrance showing that a baby changing station is inside. Does it apply to portable sanitation? While the term "public building" would seem to exclude outdoor events at which portable sanitation is provided, a deeper review of the law suggests the new rule would apply to a variety of situations where portable sanitation equipment is provided. The law uses a definition of "public building" that includes government facilities, retail spaces, restaurants, and "a publicly or privately owned sports or entertainment arena, stadium, community or convention hall, special event center, amusement facility or a special event center in a public park." It is not uncommon for portable sanitation to be provided in these locations. …Continued on page 3