Grassley, Moody Support Life, Sponsor Pregnant Students’ Rights Act

Grassley, Moody Support Life, Sponsor Pregnant Students' Rights Act

WASHINGTON- Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa) joined Sen. Ashley Moody (R-Fla.) in introducing the Pregnant Students' Rights Act. The bill requires universities to inform students who are pregnant of their rights and protections, such as modified class schedules, excused absences and other resources, supporting young women's ability to carry their babies to term.

The bill is cosponsored by Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), as well as Sens. James Lankford (R-Okla.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Roger Wicker (R-Miss.). Rep. Ashley Hinson (R-Iowa) is leading companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

"Mothers shouldn't have to choose between their education and their unborn child. Our pro-mother, pro-family legislation supports pregnant women, ensuring they can fully understand their rights and receive support while pursuing their dreams. I thank Senator Moody and Congresswoman Hinson for leading this charge to empower mothers working to create the best future for their families." Grassley said.

"Navigating college can be challenging, and unfortunately women who become pregnant can feel pressure to choose between bringing life into this world or academic failure. No one should have to make this decision. My Pregnant Students' Rights Act ensures students know what resources and support are available to them to stay in school, succeed, and care for their new baby," Moody said.

"College students who are pregnant or may become unexpectedly pregnant deserve to know every resource available to them, and it is unacceptable that so many often feel they have to choose between finishing their education and having their baby. My legislation empowers young women to choose life and ensures they have the resources and support necessary to build the best future for themselves and their child. I'm grateful to Senator Ashley Moody for leading these efforts in the Senate!" Hinson said.

The Pregnant Students' Rights Act requires universities to inform students on how to file a complaint with the Department of Education if there is a violation of Title IX protections for pregnant students. The measure also ensures universities disseminate information regarding the rights and protections for pregnant women through emails, student handbooks, at orientation, on publicly available websites and at student health or counseling centers.

Information must include a list of campus resources to help pregnant students and new mothers, accommodations provided by the school for pregnant students and new mothers, and contact information for filing a discrimination complaint with the Education Department or the school.

The legislation is endorsed by Students for Life, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America and March for Life Action.

Read full bill text HERE.

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