Press Releases

Today, Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg (R-MI), spoke on the House Floor in support of H.R. 6359, Pregnant Students' Rights Act, which protects pregnant students’ right to pursue an education:

"I rise today in support of the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act—legislation that affirms a simple but powerful principle: expecting mothers should be encouraged to pursue their education like any other student.
 
"Pregnant students often receive incorrect guidance or no guidance at all on how to navigate classes while pregnant. In many cases, women feel pressured to end their pregnancies or risk academic failure despite protections that exist now under federal law.

"The Pregnant Students’ Rights Act requires schools to clearly communicate what accommodations and protections pregnant and parenting students are entitled to. That includes excused absences for medical needs, the ability to make up missed work, and protection from discrimination and retaliation.

"More specifically, this bill requires information to be emailed to students at least once each academic year and appear in student handbooks, at orientation, at student health or counseling centers, and on the institution’s website.

"When students know their rights, they are empowered to stay enrolled, stay engaged, and succeed.

"This legislation doesn’t burden colleges; it simply increases transparency by helping schools communicate consistently and avoid confusion or unnecessary disputes.

"This is a commonsense, compassionate measure that promotes transparency and ensures pregnant students have the support they need to create a better future for themselves and their child. 

"I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act and stand up for the dignity, opportunity, and educational success of every student."

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