Representative Don Bacon has joined a bipartisan coalition to reintroduce the Helping Student Parents Succeed Act. This legislation aims to assist pregnant and parenting students by connecting them with child care, leave options, and other accommodations available at their educational institutions. The bill is co-led by Representatives Lucy McBath, Deborah Ross, Stephanie Bice, Julie Johnson, Juan Ciscomani, Jahana Hayes, and Zach Nunn.
The act mandates that higher education institutions provide information on their websites about policies related to leaves of absence for pregnancy or adoption, making up missed work, lactation accommodations, child care availability, and housing for students with dependents.
Rep. Bacon stated, “I’m pleased to co-lead the Helping Student Parents Succeed Act to ensure colleges and universities inform student parents about available childcare services and accommodations.” He emphasized that the legislation will help student parents balance education with family responsibilities.
Rep. McBath shared her personal experience of being raised by a working mother who pursued further education. She said the act would help parenting students stay in school by ensuring they know what resources are available. Rep. Ross highlighted the importance of allowing pregnant or parenting students to focus on academic success without worrying about childcare or housing.
Rep. Bice expressed pride in supporting the bill and stressed the need for pro-family policies like childcare and paid family leave in higher education institutions. Rep. Johnson underscored the importance of providing support so students do not have to choose between education and family.
Rep. Hayes noted that access to affordable education can be transformative and emphasized strengthening families through improved access to childcare resources and parental leave options. Rep. Nunn pointed out that the bill aims to bring transparency and accountability to campuses so parenting students can focus more on their studies.
The full text of the bill is available online.
