TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) – The Tallahassee-Leon County Commission on the Status of Women and Girls met on Thursday to launch a new program to recognize local businesses that support women and push for new policies to make life easier for expectant mothers.
Some of the top ideas include adding closer parking spaces for pregnant women and installing more diaper-changing stations.
One recommendation would require government buildings in Tallahassee and Leon County to convert some standard parking spaces into spots reserved for expectant mothers.
The proposal is still in the early stages and would need support from both city and county leaders. Members of the organization say the proposed change would help create a more inclusive environment for families.
“We’re making recommendations that make it easier for families. When we’re talking about changing tables, when we’re talking about parental leave, that’s inclusive of everyone because parents play a part no matter if it’s male or female,” said Chair Jazmyne Bryant.
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The group is also encouraging businesses in the area to consider additional ways to support women. Suggestions include offering parental leave, adding nursing stations and providing menstrual products.
To support that effort, the commission has launched a new initiative called “Businesses for a Better Tallahassee-Leon.” The goal is to get local businesses involved and identify ways to improve workplace support. Over the next six months, the group hopes to engage about 10 businesses.
The program includes a tier system to highlight different levels of support. For example, a bronze-level business may offer at least one program, such as providing menstrual products in restrooms. Gold-level businesses would show a longer-term commitment, including multiple efforts supporting women’s and girls’ health over three or more years.
“I think setting it up with flexibility, even if it’s an ordinance, gives a tier system of what makes sense for each business or organization versus saying you must do this,” said Kelsie Pace, Community Outreach and Engagement Coordinator for Diana Health.
Leaders say they understand not every recommendation will work for every business, so the program is designed to be flexible.
Businesses interested in making these changes or learning more are encouraged to contact the commission.
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