The International Council on Infertility Information Dissemination, Inc. is thrilled by the introduction of the Access to Family Building Act by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (IL), U.S. Senator and Chair of the U.S. Senate Committee on Appropriations Patty Murray (WA), and Representative Susan Wild (PA).

INCIID Inc fully supports this effort to establish the right for an individual to access, without prohibition or unreasonable limitation or interference, assisted reproductive technology services, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), and for a healthcare provider to provide ART services, and the importance of reproductive health.

The act seeks legislation in seven areas. Access to ART, Genetics, Enforcement of Justice, private rights of action, response to retractions, support and advocacy

1. Statutory Right to Access ART Services: The legislation seeks to establish a statutory right for individuals to access assisted reproductive technology (ART) services, including procedures like in vitro fertilization (IVF). It aims to ensure that individuals can access these services without unreasonable limitations or interference.
2. Reproductive Genetic Materials: The Act also addresses an individual’s statutory rights regarding the use or disposition of their reproductive genetic materials, including gametes (sperm and eggs). This means that individuals would have control over how their genetic materials are used or handled.
3. Department of Justice Enforcement: The legislation empowers the Department of Justice to pursue civil action against any state, government official, individual, or entity that violates the protections provided in the Act. This enforcement mechanism is designed to ensure compliance with the law.
4. Private Right of Action: In states where access to ART services is limited, the legislation creates a private right of action for individuals and healthcare providers. This means that individuals and healthcare providers can take legal action to protect their rights in states with restrictive access to ART.
5. Response to Restrictions on Reproductive Services: The Act is introduced in response to increasing restrictions on reproductive medical services in various states. It acknowledges the impact of such restrictions on patients’ ability to access IVF and other fertility treatments.
6. Support from Senators and Advocacy Groups: The legislation is supported by the International Council on Infertility Information Dissemination, Inc. (INCIID Inc.) and has been co-sponsored by several Senators, including Tammy Baldwin and Kirsten Gillibrand.
7. Importance of Reproductive Healthcare: Advocates for the legislation argue that access to reproductive healthcare is a fundamental human right, and the Access to Family Building Act aims to ensure that individuals and couples can receive the necessary medical assistance to build their families.

This legislation represents an effort to safeguard the rights of individuals and couples seeking fertility treatments and ART services, particularly now in ever-changing legal landscape for reproductive rights.