Opposition to the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act

I am writing to express my opposition to the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act. While the title of this bill suggests support for pregnant and parenting students, in practice, it fails to address the real barriers these students face in continuing their education. Instead, it functions primarily as an anti-abortion measure, without providing the structural supports that would meaningfully improve student outcomes. Pregnant and parenting students are far more likely to leave school due to lack of affordable childcare, inadequate health care access, inflexible academic policies, housing instability, and financial insecurity. This bill does not meaningfully address these challenges. It does not provide funding for childcare, transportation, healthcare, paid leave, or emergency financial assistance—supports that research consistently shows are essential to keeping students enrolled and on track to graduate. Moreover, by framing “support” in a way that centers ideological goals rather than student needs, this legislation risks pressuring students toward a single outcome while denying them full, unbiased information and comprehensive reproductive healthcare. True support for pregnant students must include respecting their autonomy and ensuring access to the full range of medical and social services they may need. If the goal is genuinely to help pregnant and parenting students succeed, lawmakers should focus on policies that: Expand access to affordable on-campus childcare Guarantee academic accommodations and flexible attendance policies Provide targeted financial aid and emergency grants Ensure access to comprehensive healthcare and counseling services Protect students from discrimination and retaliation Without these concrete supports, this bill offers little more than symbolic language while leaving the most significant obstacles unaddressed. I urge you to oppose the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act in its current form and instead pursue legislation that truly prioritizes educational equity, student well-being, and evidence-based solutions. Thank you for your time and consideration.