By Susan Brinkmann, OCDS
Staff Journalist
Respect for female members of the House is behind a newly proposed project by the Speaker-in-waiting, John Boehner (R-OH) to construct a women’s bathroom off the House floor which, until now, has only offered facilities to men.
For years, male members of Congress have had the luxury of using facilities that are immediately adjacent to the House floor while woman must either walk downstairs to a restroom or travel several halls away from the floor to find a restroom. The new plan will put a bathroom as close to the House floor as the men currently enjoy.
Boehner told The Hill his decision was part of a plan to “evaluate ways to open up the people’s House” and said it was encouraging “to be able to make changes like this that are long overdue.”
The changes are more reflective of the times as there will be 71 female House members in the 112th Congress beginning in January.
“This is about respect for female members of the House,” a spokesman for Boehner told Politico. “We don’t know the exact cost, but we have pledged to reduce the overall congressional budget, and we will.”
Critics are citing the $200,000 price tag for the renovation, which will require the installation of plumbing in a part of the building where none currently exist.
But there are more voices speaking in favor of the long-awaited project than against it.
“I think it’s a great idea,” said Rep. Virginia Foxx (R-N.C.). “We’re serving in the House and it’s a matter of equity. Sometimes we have to be on the floor for hours at a time and it doesn’t seem fair or equitable for the men to have a bathroom right off the floor and the women not.”
Foxx and other aides argue that Republicans have already taken cost-cutting measures, including eliminating the House Global Warming Committee, a $2 million savings.
Even Parliamentarian John Sullivan, whose office will become the new restroom, is applauding the idea, even though he admits it will be tough to leave his suite.
“In one sense, it’s kind of sad to leave, but I understand the symmetry of the restroom arrangements,” Sullivan said. “I know one day the House will be half women.”
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