Oregon — Rep. Cliff Bentz (R–OR-02) voted Jan. 21 in favor of two pieces of legislation intended to expand support for pregnant and parenting women and families: H.R. 6945, the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act, and H.R. 6359, the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act.
According to Bentz, the bills are designed to ensure women facing unplanned or difficult pregnancies have access to practical assistance and clear information about available resources. “Women facing unplanned or difficult pregnancies often need help,” Bentz said. “Pregnancy resource centers provide practical, compassionate services that help women and families navigate these emotional and economically challenging circumstances with dignity and confidence.”
H.R. 6945 would protect states’ ability to use Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds to support pregnancy resource centers, which may offer medical care, counseling, parenting education, and material assistance. Supporters say the bill prevents future federal actions that could restrict states from directing TANF funds to these centers.
The second measure, H.R. 6359, would amend the Higher Education Act to require colleges and universities to inform students of rights and resources available to pregnant and parenting students. Nearly one-quarter of undergraduates and roughly one-third of graduate students are pregnant or parenting, according to congressional findings. Advocates argue clearer disclosure of accommodations and protections under Title IX could help students continue their education without facing discrimination.
Together, Bentz said, the measures aim to expand options and stability for women and families by reinforcing access to support services and educational protections.
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How has Rep. Benz voted on the bill regulating ICE? Is he a holdout on the mask mandate? If so why should these “agents” be allowed? The regular police face many threatening encounters but they don’t have to wear masks. If ICE is acting legally why should they need to wear these silly costumes? It certainly must not be because they are lawfully working for the USA citizens, right?