WASHINGTON –Today, the Education and the Workforce Committee passed H.R. 6914, the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act, to ensure that pregnant students are aware of their rights on campus and are supported in pursuing motherhood while completing their education. The Committee also passed H.R. 443, the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act to ensure DOL personnel have the resources and education to properly identify cases of human trafficking and collaborate with law enforcement.
On the passage of the bills, Chairwoman Foxx said: “At their core, the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act and the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act both work to protect vulnerable populations in workplaces and in postsecondary education. It’s a commendable endeavor and one that is necessary to build a stronger workforce and education system in America. I urge my colleagues to support these measures when they come to the House Floor.”
Requires institutions to inform students of their rights and resources, including protections and accommodations available for enrolled pregnant students to carry their baby to term as a condition of Title IV funding.
Requires institutions to disclose information on how to file a Title IX compliant with the Department of Education or the institution if a student believes their rights to carry her baby to term were violated.
H.R. 443, the Enhancing Detection of Human Trafficking Act:
Ensures DOL personnel have the tools they need to detect cases of forced labor or sexual exploitation as they investigate employment law violations.
Establishes clear framework for DOL employees to assist law enforcement in prosecution and prevention efforts.
