The Senate failed for the second time on Sept. 17 to advance a bill that would establish the federal right to access in-vitro fertilization (IVF). The vote to invoke cloture on the bill fell short of the 60-vote threshold needed to overcome a filibuster, with a tally of 51-44. This was the second time the bill failed to move forward, as it was previously blocked by Republicans in June by a vote of 48-47.
The proposed legislation also includes provisions for public and private insurance to cover IVF treatments, as well as expanding IVF access for military members and veterans. President Joe Biden criticized the GOP for obstructing the bill, citing it as a barrier to reproductive freedom for women seeking fertility treatments.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer emphasized the significance of the decision to start a family, highlighting the challenges faced by many individuals in conceiving and the role IVF can play in overcoming those obstacles. In a statement, 49 Republicans expressed support for nationwide access to IVF, acknowledging its role in helping aspiring parents build their families.
The issue of IVF gained attention following a ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court deeming a fertilized egg as a human life. Former President Donald Trump recently pledged to make IVF treatments covered by the federal government or insurance companies if re-elected.
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