In an effort to combat one of Texas' most pressing social issues, Metro Health has announced a new city ordinance that targets domestic violence through the power of information, specifically within the confines of bathroom walls. By Fall 2024, establishments in San Antonio will be required to post domestic violence resource signage in the restrooms of places like hotels, restaurants, and theaters, providing a discreet and hopefully life-saving guide for those in perilous situations.

The City of San Antonio Metropolitan Health District has taken another step to address the city's disturbingly high domestic violence rates an ordinance passed in October 2023, will ensure that these spaces—a refuge for many—will serve more than just their hygienic functions. It is a bathroom, after all, that offers a moment of solitude, where a victim might memorize a phone number or discreetly scan a QR code without the worry of a prying abuser peering over their shoulder.

The mandate stipulates that these lifelines be placed as an adhesive decal on the bottom right corner of restroom mirrors, and in the absence of a mirror, the back of the exit door at eye level will do the job—five feet high to be exact. The initiative falls under Metro Health's broader "Love Is…" campaign, which aims to reshape the local narrative around healthy relationships.

Enforcement of the new signage requirement will follow a less proactive, more reactive process, based on complaints lodged or discovered during routine inspections retail and dining establishments take note, the eyes of Metro Health may find you lacking. Should a business require a sign, they won't need to shell out a single dime—Metro Health is providing them free of charge and can be requested by dialing 3-1-1, those itching to comply sooner rather than later can download a printable file from the DVSigns website.