S.207 - Protecting Life on College Campus Act of 2025 (119th Congress)
Summary
The "Protecting Life on College Campus Act of 2025" aims to prohibit federal funding to institutions of higher education that host or are affiliated with student-based service sites providing abortion drugs or abortions. The bill requires institutions to submit annual reports certifying that no such services are provided to students or employees. It also includes a preemption clause protecting institutions complying with the act from state penalties.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the bill could significantly reduce access to abortion drugs and abortions for students and employees at institutions of higher education. This could lead to changes in healthcare services offered on campuses and potentially impact student health decisions. The bill may also affect the financial stability of some institutions if they choose to continue providing these services and forgo federal funding.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces the incidence of abortions among college students.
- Reinforces the principle of not using federal funds for abortions, aligning with some taxpayers' values.
- May encourage alternative healthcare services on campuses, such as increased focus on prenatal care or adoption resources.
- Provides clarity and consistency in federal funding guidelines related to abortion services on college campuses.
- Protects institutions complying with the act from conflicting state laws.
Potential Disadvantages
- Restricts access to healthcare options, specifically abortion and abortion drugs, for students and employees.
- Could disproportionately affect low-income students who rely on campus health services.
- May create administrative burdens for institutions to comply with the annual reporting requirements.
- Potentially infringes on institutional autonomy and healthcare decisions.
- Could lead to legal challenges based on reproductive rights.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's constitutionality is debatable. Arguments against it may cite the potential infringement on individual liberties and healthcare access, possibly raising questions under the Due Process Clause of the Fifth and Fourteenth Amendments. Supporters might argue that the bill aligns with the government's power to allocate federal funds as it sees fit, and that it does not directly prohibit abortions but rather restricts funding.
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).