U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, chair of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, issued a statement after Senate Democrats blocked the Pregnant Students’ Rights Act. The bill, co-sponsored by Cassidy and Senator Ashley Moody, aimed to provide resources for pregnant women to continue their college education.
In a speech delivered before the vote, Cassidy discussed his views on supporting pregnant students and raised concerns about chemical abortion drugs. He stated: “When Democrats talk about being ‘pro-choice,’ is the choice they’re talking about forcing women to choose between a child and an education,” said Dr. Cassidy. “Republicans want to empower moms to be able to pursue an education!”
He added: “It is troubling that Democrats refuse to support pregnant women pursing higher education.”
Cassidy highlighted recent advocacy efforts related to pro-life issues and shared that his committee would focus its first hearing of 2026 on the risks associated with mifepristone, a chemical abortion drug. He thanked Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill and Dr. Monique Wubbenhorst for providing testimony on the impact of abortion drugs.
Cassidy cited studies indicating potential health risks from chemical abortion drugs, noting that many women experience moderate to severe pain or serious adverse events such as hemorrhaging or infection. He criticized current regulations allowing these medications to be ordered online without in-person medical evaluation.
He also referenced specific cases in Louisiana where he argued that lack of oversight led to negative outcomes for young women. Cassidy called for restoring previous in-person dispensing requirements for these medications and urged federal officials to review mifepristone safety protocols.
Cassidy concluded by reaffirming support for policies he described as pro-family and pro-life: “When Democrats talk about being ‘pro-choice,’ is the choice they’re talking about forcing women to choose between a child and an education? Republicans want to empower moms to be able to pursue an education! I’m proud to co-sponsor this legislation, and I thank Senator Moody for her leadership and collaboration.”
The full text of Cassidy’s remarks is available through HELP Committee channels.
