Duluth, GA — Today, U.S. Representatives Lucy McBath (GA-07) and Colin Allred (TX-32) introduced the Helping Student Parents Succeed Act, which would ensure students expecting a child and student parents are made aware of child care, leave options, and other accommodations that are available to them at their schools.
The bill is part of the Roadmap to College Student Success, House Democrats’ campaign to reform America’s higher education system for students and families.
“I was raised by a working single mother who took classes to complete her master’s degree,“ said McBath. “Student parents and those expecting work hard to raise children while pursuing a better livelihood for their families. The Helping Student Parents Succeed Act helps our families by ensuring information on child care and parental leave options are available to these parents and those who need it most.”
“I took leave after both my sons were born because I know it's difficult to juggle so much during this period of starting a family,” said Allred.“This bill will make it easier for student parents and those expecting to find information regarding leave policies and child care options at their institution of higher education. I am committed to helping all North Texans, including new parents, get the education and skills they need to enter the workforce and secure good-paying jobs.”
The Helping Student Parents Succeed Act requires higher learning institutions to post on their website their policies regarding leaves of absence related to pregnancy or adoption of a child, as well as any policies related to making up missed work, lactation accommodations, the availability of child care, and housing for students with dependents.
Rep. McBath and Allred’s Helping Student Parents Succeed Act is a part of the Roadmap to College Student Success, House Democrats’ campaign to reform America’s higher education system for students and families. The “roadmap” brings together a series of bold proposals focused on bringing down the cost of college, helping students access a quality degree, and—once students are in school—providing them with the support they need to graduate. Learn more about the Roadmap to College Student Success here.