The Restroom Access Act — also known as Ally's Law — requires qualifying retail establishments to allow customers with documented medical conditions to access employee restrooms. Currently enacted in 22 states. Know your rights. Carry your card.
The Restroom Access Act, commonly referred to as "Ally's Law," was inspired by Ally Bain, an Illinois teenager with Crohn's disease who was refused access to an employee restroom at a Burger King. Her advocacy led to landmark legislation that has since been adopted across the country.
The law protects individuals with a legitimate medical need for immediate restroom access — including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), interstitial cystitis, and other conditions affecting the bladder or bowel.
Typically, retail establishments that have at least two employees on duty, are open to the public, and have a toilet facility for employee use. This includes pharmacies, retail stores, grocery chains, restaurants, and similar businesses. View your state laws below to confirm complyment requirements.
Upon request, a qualifying business must allow the customer to use their employee restroom — provided it can be accessed safely, does not require passage through an area that poses a genuine safety risk, and the establishment has at least two staff members present.
Typically nothing must be provided and simply requesting access due to a medical condition is all that is necessary. In some states, you may be required to present a medical access card, or a signed statement from a licensed healthcare provider confirming a medical condition requiring immediate restroom access.
If a business refuses or hesitates to provide restroom access, here's exactly what you're entitled to do — calmly and confidently.
Inform the employee that you have a medical condition requiring immediate restroom access. Some states may require you to provide a signed statement from a licensed healthcare provider — but carrying a medical access card is optional, not required. If you have one, presenting it can help clarify the situation quickly.
You may say: "Under the Restroom Access Act, this establishment is required by law to allow me access to your employee restroom. My condition requires immediate access and I have the required medical documentation."
Frontline employees may be unaware of the law. Politely request a manager or supervisor and calmly repeat your request. Most refusals occur due to ignorance of the law, not deliberate non-compliance.
If access is still denied, note the date, time, business name, address, and the name or description of the employee involved. This information is essential if you choose to file a complaint with your state's consumer protection office.
Report violations to your state's attorney general, department of public health, or consumer protection division. Violations of the Restroom Access Act may carry civil penalties — often $100–$1,000 per incident depending on your state.
The following states have enacted the Restroom Access Act or equivalent legislation. Click any state for details on the specific provisions, penalties, and requirements in that state.
This professional card documents your legal right to restroom access under the Restroom Access Act. Present it to retail employees or managers when requesting access. All information stays on your device — nothing is uploaded or stored.
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Visit Foundation ?If a business refuses to comply with the Restroom Access Act, you can file a formal complaint with your state's Attorney General or Consumer Protection Division.
Find Your State AG ?Ask your doctor to provide a signed letter on official letterhead confirming your condition and need for urgent restroom access — this strengthens your legal standing significantly.
Generate Your Card ?Apps like Flush Toilet Finder, SitOrSquat, and Bathroom Scout help you locate public restrooms in advance — useful for planning routes when traveling or running errands.
Flush Toilet Finder App ?If your state has not yet passed the Restroom Access Act, you can contact your state legislators and join national advocacy campaigns to expand coverage.
Contact Legislators ?Connect with others living with Crohn's, colitis, and related conditions through the CCFA Community, Reddit communities, and local ostomy and IBD support groups.
Join Community ?