WASHINGTON — Legislation backed by Michigan Congressman Tim Walberg has passed the U.S. House of Representatives.
The House approved the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act, which requires colleges and universities to formally disclose existing rights and accommodations for pregnant students.
The bill mandates that institutions receiving federal funding clearly communicate pregnancy-related rights already provided under federal law, including Title IX (Nine).
Schools would be required to inform students about available academic accommodations, such as excused absences for medical needs, opportunities to make up missed coursework, and protections against discrimination or retaliation.
The legislation also requires institutions to provide information on campus and community resources, as well as instructions for filing discrimination complaints.
Under the bill, that information must be distributed to students at least once each academic year and posted in student handbooks, orientation materials, campus health or counseling centers, and on institutional websites.
The bill now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration.