In action designed to address gender inequities, Assemblymember Susan A. Bonilla has introduced a bill that would increase the number of women in so-called STEM fields — Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Her legislation, Assembly Bill 2350, has been approved by the Assembly Higher Education Committee.

“With the increased demand for jobs within the STEM fields, it is critical that women are not choosing to exit the STEM pipeline because of discrimination they experienced in graduate school programs,” Bonilla, a Concord Democrat and Benicia’s representative in the Assembly, said.

“While Title IX standards may require gender equity in all federally funded educational programs, the reality is, the standards are not being met.”

Her bill points out that pregnancy discrimination is included in the federal Title IX standards, and requires universities to adopt policies to implement Title IX.

“One of the leading reasons why women exit STEM fields is because most colleges and universities do not provide maternity leave or reasonable and necessary accommodations during pregnancy,” Bonilla said.

“For instance, if a student must take a leave of absence due to pregnancy, oftentimes their spot in the program is not guaranteed, and they do not receive extensions on assignments or on the time in which they have to complete their degree.”

Her bill addresses those concerns. It also provides what she described as “clear steps’ so that universities can adhere to Title IX standards.

“There are too many talented and intelligent women leaving academia due to pregnancy discrimination,” Bonilla said.

“Far too often when we think of Title IX, we associate it with equality in athletics,” she said.

“It is time we not only recognize Title IX in higher education, but that we reinforce the requirements to allow for the advancement of women in STEM.”

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