Michigan House Bill HB4957

Michigan 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 9/7/23
• Refer: 9/7/23

Caption

Higher education: other; prohibition on offering referrals for abortion services in pregnant and parenting student services offices; eliminate. Amends sec. 5 of 2004 PA 500 (MCL 390.1595). TIE BAR WITH: HB 4949'23

Impact

If enacted, HB 4957 is poised to enhance the resources available to pregnant and parenting students, thereby promoting better academic outcomes and improving support systems across Michigan's higher education institutions. The establishment of dedicated offices for this demographic could lead to improved access to much-needed services and resources that directly address the challenges faced by these students. This could also push other institutions to implement similar support measures, fostering an educational environment that recognizes and addresses the complexities of student parenthood.

Summary

House Bill 4957 aims to amend the Pregnant and Parenting Student Services Act to facilitate the establishment of offices within institutions of higher education that support students who are pregnant or parenting. The bill stipulates that these offices should assess the needs of students and provide services and resources that include comprehensive student health care, family housing, child care, and flexible academic scheduling. The legislation aims to create an inclusive environment in educational institutions for pregnant students and custodial parents, ensuring they can successfully manage their academic and familial responsibilities.

Contention

One notable point of contention is the bill's provision against referring students for abortion services. This aspect has drawn criticism from various advocacy groups who argue that the restriction undermines the comprehensive nature of care that these offices are intended to provide. Critics argue that while the bill aims to support pregnant students, it may limit their access to crucial reproductive health services, thus sparking debates regarding women's rights and health care access within the education system. As such, the discussions surrounding HB 4957 reflect broader societal views on reproductive rights and student support services.