USC's 116th student senate held its final senate session of the school year on Wednesday, where it passed legislation to build more restrooms in the Jones Physical Science Center and commend Student Government executive leaders for their time in office.
Senator Anitta John introduced a piece of legislation recommending that the university build additional restrooms in the Jones Physical Science Center, which the senate passed.
"This is what it says at the website, 'After having its first floor renovated in recent years, Jones Physical Science Center now has second and third floors labs undergoing renovations to ready, ready them for the future research and classes,'" John said. "So as I said before, very great news that there's renovation going on. But as you can see, it has been requested by our former and current students for many years to add more restroom to Jones. So I would consider this as a bigger issue which needs immediate action."
According to the recommendation, the Jones Physical Science Center needs improved restroom accessibility for students and staff. The current facilities are not easily accessible, particularly on the basement and upper floors. The basement and second floor only have men’s restrooms, raising concerns about equal access.
The recommendation suggests that adding restrooms, particularly in the basement, would improve accessibility and better accommodate students, faculty and staff. It proposes that the university allocate funds to build additional restrooms in the Jones Physical Science Center, ensuring they meet accessibility standards and are incorporated into ongoing renovation plans.
In 2021, The Daily Gamecock reported on this issue and its impact on students, especially women in the sciences. A 2024 article reinforced the need for updates, citing restroom access as a challenge for students and faculty
Four other passed pieces of legislation individually honored each executive member of Student Government. Student Body President Patton Byars, Student Body Vice President Courtney Tkacs, Speaker of the Student Senate Maura Hamilton and Student Body Treasurer Reese Lycan were each recognized for their work over the term.
Tkacs said she really enjoyed her time as vice president and looks forward to serving as student body president next year.
Hamilton said she is proud of the 116th student senate. She said she gave senators autonomy, did not micromanage them and was intentionally not present at every committee meeting.
"Senators went above and beyond. We've got over 130 pieces of legislation coming out of this senate," Hamilton said. "They had so many great initiatives in all of our committees. They blew my mind beyond expectations. It made my decision to come back so much easier because I wanted to feel this feeling again. It went so much better than I could have ever imagined. I'm so grateful and blessed."
The 116th student senate adjourned "sine die" which means there is no further date for resumption. The 117th student senate will get inaugurated tomorrow, March 20, at 5:30 p.m. in Rutledge Chapel. The new student senate will hold its first meeting next Wednesday, March 26 at 5:30 p.m. in the Russell House Theater. All students are welcome to attend these meetings.