All public places (anyone/place that serves the public) should have a bathroom available for said public.
They all have one, it's ridiculous that the people they are servicing, shouldn't be able to use it. It's really sad, that an elderly person with issues, a small child, or anyone for that matter, be forced to risk an incident, because of something out of their control. This is a health and sanitary issue.
People are told no, to using the bathroom or suggested to go to another nearby store, gas station or restaurant. That's insane, I am here, in this store...why should I have to go across the street. Some of these cases, end with humiliating circumstances. Which is just outrageous!
Simple fact if you need to go, you should be able to. Serve the public, have a public bathroom.