A bill for an act relating to students who are pregnant or who recently gave birth who attend state institutions of higher education governed by the board of regents and community colleges.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Bill Gustoff

HF 103 ensures support for pregnant students in higher education by requiring policies, training, and resources to protect their rights and promote inclusivity.

Subcommittee recommends passage.

#births #collegesanduniversities #communitycolleges #pregnancy #regentsboard #students

Summary of Bill HF 103

Title: A bill for an act relating to students who are pregnant or who recently gave birth who attend state institutions of higher education governed by the board of regents and community colleges.

Bill Number: HF 103
Introduced: January 22, 2025
Status: Subcommittee recommends passage
Classification: Bill
Subject: Births, Colleges and Universities, Community Colleges, Pregnancy, Regents Board, Students

Purpose and Intent

The primary purpose of HF 103 is to enhance protections and support for students who are pregnant or have recently given birth while attending state institutions of higher education and community colleges. The bill aims to ensure compliance with the federal Higher Education Act of 1965 regarding pregnancy discrimination and to provide necessary resources and information to affected students.

Key Provisions

HF 103 includes several important provisions:

Written Policy Requirement:

Institutions must maintain a written policy addressing pregnancy discrimination and procedures for handling related complaints.

Training and Orientation:

Institutions are required to provide copies of the pregnancy discrimination policy to faculty, staff, and employees during required training sessions, as well as to all students during orientation.

Public Notice:

Institutions must prominently post information about the protections available to pregnant students and those who have recently given birth on their websites.

Information Accessibility:

Institutions are mandated to provide information regarding protections under the federal Higher Education Act to students upon request, particularly through medical and student health centers.

Designated Staff Member:

Each institution must assign a staff member responsible for overseeing pregnancy and parenting support. This individual will maintain knowledge of relevant laws, ensure compliance, and publicize information related to pregnancy and parenting.

Contact Information:

The name, title, and contact information of the designated staff member must be posted on the institution's website for easy access by students.

Impact

The bill is expected to significantly benefit students who are pregnant or have recently given birth by:

Providing clear guidelines and support structures within educational institutions.

Ensuring that students are informed of their rights and available resources.

Promoting a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for pregnant and parenting students.

Procedural Timeline

January 22, 2025: Bill introduced and referred to the Education Committee.

January 23, 2025: Subcommittee formed, including members Hora, Ehlert, and Kniff McCulla.

January 27, 2025: Subcommittee meeting scheduled for January 28, 2025, at 3:00 PM in the House Lounge.

January 28, 2025: Subcommittee recommends passage of the bill.

This summary provides an overview of HF 103, highlighting its intent, key provisions, and potential impact on students in higher education institutions.