Stetson University sends survey about ‘Plan B’ vending machines, abortion travel fund

DELAND, Fla. (FLV) – Stetson University sent a survey to students about whether it would be helpful to provide Plan B vending machines and an abortion travel fund.

The survey was released the day Gov. Ron DeSantis signed a six-week abortion ban bill into law. The prohibition would not go into effect until the Florida Supreme Court made a decision on the constitutionality of the 15-week ban.

The survey was labeled “How can Stetson support your right to access abortion?”

Stetson University is a private higher education institution located in DeLand, Florida.

The survey was posted on the university’s announcement page and sent to students in the daily email called “Stetson Today.”

“We are seeking to collect information on how Stetson can best support students as their access to healthcare in this state is restricted. We welcome any and all suggestions you have,” the survey said.

It was written by students in ARTS 200A: Art About Reproductive Justice.

Florida’s Voice reached out to Stetson University for a comment.

Student Cody Larsen received the survey and believes “Stetson’s priorities are in the wrong place.”

“Instead, Stetson should prioritize educating their students on appropriate educational and financial support for expecting mothers and unplanned pregnancies. Stetson should be encouraging students to seek out appropriate guidance from community organizations,” Larsen said.

He noted that it would be “totally unfair and morally wrong” for a student’s tuition to fly students to other states for abortions.

The six-week abortion ban provides exceptions up to 15 weeks for human trafficking, rape and incest. Other exceptions include if the mother’s life is in danger.

The new law also allocates millions of dollars for a family planning program and expand the Florida Pregnancy Care Network.

Democrats call the bill a “near-total abortion ban,” saying many women do not know they are pregnant at six weeks.

“This is not reasonable because it amounts to an outright ban. Most women don’t know that they are pregnant at six weeks,” House Minority Leader Fentrice Driskell said. “You just don’t want women to have choice.”

DeSantis sad after signing the bill that he is proud to support life and family in Florida.

“I applaud the Legislature for passing the Heartbeat Protection Act that expands pro-life protections and provides additional resources for young mothers and families,” he said.

Editor’s note: This story was updated to include Cody Larsen’s quote and more information on the abortion law.