Sheila Jackson Lee: “I am here today to speak in opposition to the proposed legislation, H.R. 69l4, Pregnant Student's Rights Act. This bill…”

“I am here today to speak in opposition to the proposed legislation, H.R. 69l4, Pregnant Student's Rights Act. This bill requires higher education institutions that participate in federal education programs to disseminate information on the rights and resources afforded to prospective, full- and part-time students who are pregnant or may become pregnant to encourage them to carry their pregnancy to term. These institutions would be required to share this information by email at the start of each academic year, in student handbooks, at each orientation for enrolled students, at student health and counseling centers, and on the school's website. A list of anti-abortion ``findings'' in the bill insinuate that women who have an abortion are at risk of developing mental health issues, abusing drugs and alcohol, and becoming suicidal. Amendments in committee offered to make it clear that schools are still allowed to disseminate information on access to sexual and reproductive health services and the rights, protections, and accommodation afforded to students under Title IX, were voted down by Republicans on the Committee. Additionally, it must be noted that this harmful bill is a futile attempt that will be vetoed by this Administration. As we know, the Administration strongly opposes H.R. 69l4. As highlighted in the White House Statement of Administrative Policy (SAP), the Administration clearly stated its opposition to H.R. 69l4 in its current form.…”