Burning Question: Do federal buildings need potty parity?

It's not uncommon at sporting events and concerts -- especially in older arenas -- to see long lines at women's restrooms while men move in and out of their designated facilities with relative ease. Now some lawmakers want to make sure the same situation doesn't occur at federal buildings.

The Washington Post's "Federal Eye," Ed O'Keefe, reports that members of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee have joined forces across party lines to push the "Potty Parity Act," requiring that new federal buildings provide men and women with equal access to restroom facilities. The bill includes a requirement of a 1 to 1 ratio for toilets in men's and women's restrooms.

That standard, though, might not be enough. According to Wikipedia, the International Building Code requires a 2:1 female-male ratio of toilets, taking into account that women spend more time in restrooms, on average, than men.

Lawmakers push 'Potty Parity' at federal sites
(Federal Eye)

Burning Question is a recurring feature that looks at key issues and compelling stories being explored at other publications and social media sites covering the federal government.