The Senate is preparing for a second vote on a bill that aims to establish a nationwide right to in vitro fertilization. This move by Democrats is seen as an attempt to highlight women’s health issues and potentially put pressure on Republican candidates, as well as draw a contrast between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, who has expressed support for IVF.
Earlier this year, the Alabama Supreme Court’s ruling that frozen embryos could be considered children under state law prompted Democrats to introduce the legislation. Although the bill faces challenges in passing due to opposition from Republicans, Democrats are pushing to increase access to IVF procedures and reduce associated costs.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stated that the right to IVF is under threat, particularly following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn abortion rights in 2022. The bill, proposed by Sen. Tammy Duckworth of Illinois, received mostly Democratic support, with Republicans arguing against federal interference in state matters.
In response to the Democrats’ efforts, some Republicans have voiced their support for IVF treatments. Former President Trump, who has declared himself a leader in the IVF field, announced vague plans to require health insurance companies or the federal government to cover IVF expenses.
Despite Republican attempts to counter the Democrats’ stance on IVF, the issue has become a point of contention within the party, especially as certain state laws granting legal personhood to embryos have raised concerns. Sen. Duckworth, a proponent of IVF who has personal experience with the treatment, has been a driving force behind the legislation.
Republicans have suggested alternative measures, such as legislation discouraging states from banning IVF, but Democrats have blocked these proposals, arguing that they are insufficient. Republican lawmakers like Sen. Ted Cruz have criticized the Democrats’ approach as a political move, while Sen. Rick Scott highlighted the importance of expanding health savings accounts for IVF patients.
