Cedar Rapids Today

Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) recently addressed the House Floor to advocate for her Pregnant Students' Rights Act. In her impassioned speech, Hinson emphasized the importance of supporting pregnant students and ensuring they have access to resources and accommodations during their education.

"As a mom of two, this issue is personal to me," Hinson stated. "When you’re pregnant, there are a million questions racing through your head. From doctors’ appointments to new financial responsibilities, pregnant students have so much on their plate as they work to balance school and having a healthy pregnancy."

Hinson highlighted the challenges faced by pregnant women on college campuses, including the pressure to choose between having their baby and continuing their education. She emphasized that pregnant students have the right to stay in school, finish their education, and achieve their career goals under Title Nine.

"Unfortunately, academic disparity exists due to the lack of resources, support, and tools for pregnant students," Hinson explained. "These women may fear institutional reprisal, loss of athletic scholarships, or negative impacts on their academic opportunity and standing."

The Congresswoman stressed that higher education institutions have a responsibility to empower all their students to succeed, including pregnant students. She called for these institutions to provide information about the rights of pregnant students and the resources available to them on campus.

"Pregnant students deserve to be treated with respect and surrounded with care and love," Hinson asserted. "They should know about the organizations that provide physical and emotional support for new and soon-to-be moms."

Hinson also expressed her admiration for the pro-life community and their dedication to supporting expecting moms and their babies. She emphasized that the movement is about recognizing the sanctity of every life and valuing life at every stage.

"The Pregnant Students’ Rights Act amends the Higher Education Act to require higher education institutions to distribute information about the rights of pregnant students and the resources available to them," Hinson explained. "It also strengthens procedures for students to file complaints and pursue accountability if their rights are violated."

Hinson expressed her disappointment with the Biden Administration's opposition to the bill, stating that it is troubling that they would oppose providing pregnant women on college campuses with resources to continue their education and have a healthy pregnancy.

"I hope that my colleagues across the aisle will vote to empower pregnant women and support this vital, life-affirming legislation," Hinson urged. "There is no reason that providing additional resources and support to women who choose life should be partisan."

In conclusion, Hinson emphasized that every woman who chooses to complete her studies through her pregnancy is contributing to families, communities, and the workforce. She described the Pregnant Students' Rights Act as a step in the right direction to creating a culture of life in society.

"I strongly urge my colleagues to vote in support of this bill," Hinson concluded.

The Pregnant Students' Rights Act aims to ensure that pregnant students have the necessary support and resources to continue their education while also navigating the challenges of pregnancy. By providing information and accommodations, this legislation seeks to empower pregnant students to achieve their educational and career goals. Congresswoman Ashley Hinson's advocacy for this bill reflects her commitment to supporting the rights of pregnant students and promoting a culture of life.