Cedar Rapids Today

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Ashley Hinson's Pregnant Students' Rights Act has advanced through the House Education and Workforce Committee, bringing hope and support to pregnant women on college campuses across the United States.

The legislation aims to address the challenges faced by pregnant students, who often feel pressured to choose between continuing their education and having their baby. Under Title IX, pregnant students already have the right to stay in school and pursue their career goals. However, the lack of resources, support, and tools for pregnant students has resulted in academic disparity and mental health challenges.

In a statement, Congresswoman Ashley Hinson expressed her concerns, saying, "It is unacceptable that pregnant women on college campuses are often told they have to choose between finishing their education and having their baby. Pregnant women should be informed of all resources available to continue their education while pregnant, never pressured into having an abortion. This legislation will empower young women to choose life and ensure they have access to support while they work to provide the best future for themselves and their child."

Senator Marco Rubio also emphasized the importance of empowering pregnant college students and providing them with alternatives to abortion. He stated, "Pregnant college students should never feel like abortion is their only option. This bill would empower more women to choose life by ensuring they are aware of all the resources available to them and their babies while pursuing their education. Every life is precious, and college campuses should never make young women feel marginalized for choosing life."

Support for the Pregnant Students' Rights Act extends beyond Congress. Kristan Hawkins, President of Students for Life Action, commended Congresswoman Hinson and Senator Rubio for introducing the legislation, stating, "As part of building a pro-life culture, Congress must act to protect pregnant and parenting students who are working to build a better life. This effort will require schools to communicate protections in place and commit to helping such pregnant and parenting students succeed on campus."

Honorable Marilyn Musgrave, from Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, also expressed gratitude towards Congresswoman Hinson for her efforts in supporting mothers on college campuses across the country. Musgrave said, "Instead, mothers on campus should feel empowered and supported with resources and information to create the best possible future for both themselves and their child. The Pregnant Students' Rights Act does just this to ensure that universities provide students with information on life-affirming resources that will serve both mom and baby."

The legislation introduced by Congresswoman Ashley Hinson is a step towards ensuring that pregnant women are provided with the necessary support and information to make informed decisions about their education and their future. By empowering young women to choose life and providing them with resources such as flexible class schedules, excused absences, and child care assistance, the Pregnant Students' Rights Act aims to create an environment where pregnant students can thrive academically while also embracing motherhood.

As the legislation advances, it is clear that there is a growing recognition of the need to support pregnant women on college campuses. The Pregnant Students' Rights Act sets a precedent for other states and institutions to follow, ensuring that no woman feels marginalized or compelled to choose between her education and her child.