Chavez-DeRemer, colleagues introduce resolution supporting IVF treatments in wake of Alabama Supreme Court ruling

WASHINGTON (KTVZ) – This week, Reps. Lori Chavez-DeRemer (OR-05), Michelle Steel (CA-45), and Juan Ciscomani (AZ-06) introduced a resolution that expresses support for in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments in the wake of an Alabama court ruling that has raised issues about their legality.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 19 percent of women face infertility. As stated in the resolution, IVF has proven to be an effective method for women to have a family despite infertility challenges. A report published by the Columbia University Fertility Center found that over eight million babies have been born through IVF.

The resolution was introduced after a recent Alabama Supreme Court ruling that frozen embryos are children under the state's Wrongful Death of a Minor Law, leading some fertility clinics in that state to pause their services. and lawmakers in that state to introduce bills aimed at protecting IVF.

“As a mom, I have deep empathy for women who want to start a family – or grow their family – but are feeling helpless due to infertility. IVF treatment is proven to be a safe and effective health care option not only for these women, but also for many couples who want to have children. I’m introducing this resolution because it’s important to make it clear that IVF needs to be protected. Moving forward, I hope state legislatures will take action as needed to support IVF access,” Chavez-DeRemer said.

“As someone who struggled with infertility and personally witnessed the miracle of IVF, I strongly believe that IVF should remain protected and accessible. I am proud to support this resolution to reaffirm Congress’ support for IVF and growing families. Over 8 million children have blessed their parents because of this safe, effective treatment. I am so grateful for the gift of life through IVF,” Steel said.

"Everyone who has the desire to know and feel the joy of parenthood should have the opportunity. With 1 in 6 people affected with infertility, IVF treatments have empowered women and families, and it should always be an option available to those who need and want it. This resolution emphasizes Congress’ support for IVF and I am proud to join my colleagues in leading this charge,” Ciscomani said. 

Specifically, if passed, the resolution states that the U.S. House of Representatives:

• Strongly supports the access to and use of IVF treatments across the U.S.;
• Remains committed to commonsense policies that enable families to grow and thrive; and
• Recognizes the fundamental truth that life is precious.

Full text of the resolution is available HERE.