MS HB972

Commissioner of Higher Education and Executive Director of Mississippi Community College Board must develop a plan of action to address unintended and unmarried pregnancies among older teens by November 3, 2014, in collaboration with all public university and community college presidents or their representatives.

Planning committee must be comprised of no more than 60% women to ensure balanced gender representation.

Plan must include incorporation of pregnancy prevention into student success courses and orientation, integration into academic courses where appropriate, and campus-wide awareness and resource initiatives.

Plan must identify opportunities for current students to mentor younger teens, available private and federal grants, partnerships with health centers, and support for existing single parents regarding childcare, transportation, and financial aid.

Commissioner and executive director must present the completed plan to the Legislature no later than November 3, 2014.