U.S. Representatives Scott Perry (PA-10) and Nancy Mace (SC-01) today introduced the IVF Protection Act to protect families’ access to in vitro fertilization (IVF) services. The bill prohibits any state from receiving Medicaid funding if it enacts a ban on IVF.
“We will always protect Americans' rights to start a family, that includes as much support as humanly possible for IVF," Rep. Mace said. "This bill is a significant step in ensuring women's reproductive health is protected from extreme measures while balancing conscience protections and necessary health and safety standards."
“I am proud to co-lead the House’s effort to protect IVF access for families in South-Central Pennsylvania and across the Country,” said Rep. Perry. “It’s time Congress steps up to fight for American Citizen’s right to IVF services and the hope and life for millions of loving families.”
The bill allows states to enact appropriate IVF health and safety standards, but no individual or organization would be compelled to provide such services.
“The Federal government has very limited responsibilities, among those is protecting life and liberty – which includes defending Americans’ rights to grow their families through IVF,” said Rep. Perry. “I’m honored to help ensure that South-Central Pennsylvanians and all Americans have the opportunity to experience the precious gift of life and parenthood through IVF.”
IVF provides hope to people who otherwise are unable to grow their families. Since its development in the 1970s, it has proven to be a safe, effective, and reliable means to achieve pregnancy. Estimates are that nearly 2 percent of all live births in the United States are the result of IVF, meaning tens of thousands of babies born annually through this process.
"When we say we are pro-life, we have to mean it. This means protecting Americans' rights to start a family and create life,” said Rep. Mace. “This bill is a significant step in ensuring that women's reproductive health is protected from extreme measures while balancing conscience protections and necessary health and safety standards."
