Lankford Backs New Bill to Ensure Pregnant College Students Can Stay in School

Lankford Backs New Bill to Ensure Pregnant College Students Can Stay in School

U.S. Senator James Lankford is supporting new federal legislation aimed at strengthening protections for pregnant college students, ensuring they are informed of their rights and supported throughout their education.

The proposal, known as the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act, is being advanced alongside Senator Ashley Moody of Florida and a broad group of Senate colleagues. The bill focuses on making sure expectant and parenting students are aware of accommodations already guaranteed under federal law—so they are not forced to choose between continuing their education and continuing a pregnancy.

The legislation comes as the U.S. Senate prepares for a roll call vote following last week’s March for Life events in Washington, D.C.

Clear Information, Real Support

Supporters of the bill say the goal is simple: transparency and access. Colleges and universities would be required to clearly communicate to students what protections exist for those who are pregnant or may become pregnant.

These protections include academic accommodations such as adjusted course schedules, excused absences for medical needs, and access to campus resources that help students remain enrolled and on track toward graduation.

Senator Lankford emphasized that higher education and motherhood should not be treated as mutually exclusive, arguing that students deserve an environment that respects both academic achievement and life.

Senator Moody echoed those sentiments, noting that college can already be overwhelming, and pregnancy can add additional pressure. She said the legislation is designed to remove uncertainty by ensuring students know what help is available so they can succeed academically while preparing to care for a child.

Amending Federal Education Law

The Pregnant Students’ Rights Act would update the Higher Education Act to require institutions of higher learning to actively inform students of their rights under existing federal protections, including Title IX.

Under the bill, colleges would be required to explain how students can file complaints with the U.S. Department of Education if they believe their rights have been violated. Information would need to be distributed through multiple channels, including student handbooks, campus websites, orientation materials, emails, and student health or counseling centers.

Schools would also be required to provide contact information for both internal campus offices and federal agencies responsible for handling discrimination complaints.

Campus Resources and Accommodations

In addition to outlining legal rights, the legislation would require schools to publish a list of available campus resources for pregnant students and new parents. These may include academic flexibility, temporary leave options, and access to childcare assistance where available.

Supporters say the bill reinforces existing law while holding institutions accountable for ensuring students actually know their rights—rather than leaving them buried in fine print or unclear policies.

Broad Senate Support

The legislation is supported by Senate Majority Leader John Thune and co-sponsored by a large group of lawmakers, including Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith, Bill Cassidy, Jim Banks, Ted Budd, Marsha Blackburn, Rick Scott, Chuck Grassley, Steve Daines, and Roger Wicker.

Outside advocacy groups backing the measure include Students for Life, Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, and March for Life Action.

Supporters argue the bill reinforces a campus culture where women are supported, informed, and empowered—without fear of academic retaliation or pressure to make life-altering decisions due to lack of information.

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