Pregnant Students’ Rights Act
Summary
The "Pregnant Students' Rights Act" (H.R. 6359) aims to ensure that institutions of higher education provide information to prospective and enrolled students about the rights, accommodations, and resources available to pregnant students who choose to carry their baby to term. This includes resources on campus and in the community, accommodations to help pregnant students, and information on how to file complaints regarding Title IX violations related to pregnancy. The bill amends Section 485 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to mandate these information dissemination activities.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this bill would require colleges and universities to actively inform students about their rights and available resources related to pregnancy and childbirth. This could lead to increased awareness and support for pregnant students, potentially improving their academic outcomes and overall well-being. It could also increase the number of Title IX complaints filed.
Potential Benefits
- Increased awareness of resources for pregnant students.
- Improved support systems for pregnant students on campus.
- Greater understanding of Title IX rights related to pregnancy.
- Potential for improved academic outcomes for pregnant students.
- Standardized information dissemination across institutions.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased administrative burden on institutions of higher education.
- Possible legal challenges regarding the scope and interpretation of Title IX.
- Risk of the information being perceived as biased or incomplete.
- Potential for increased costs associated with providing accommodations and resources.
- May not address all the underlying issues faced by pregnant students.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill appears to align with the general welfare clause of the Constitution, as it aims to support the well-being of pregnant students. It also touches upon Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits sex-based discrimination in educational programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance. The bill seeks to ensure that pregnant students are not discriminated against and have access to resources to continue their education.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).