Senate Republicans once again stood in the way of legislation that aimed to protect and expand access to in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments across the country. The latest vote came just weeks before the upcoming midterm elections, following recent statements by former President Donald Trump backing fertility treatments, raising questions about where the GOP truly stands on the issue.
The bill, called the Right to IVF Act, sought to establish a national right for individuals and couples to receive fertility treatments from licensed healthcare providers, following evidence-based medical practices. It also included provisions to make the treatments more affordable, requiring insurance companies to cover fertility care.
Senate Democrats first introduced the legislation three months ago, but it was blocked by Republicans who argued the bill was too broad in scope. This week, Democrats called for a second vote, daring the GOP to reconsider as the election draws near. The final vote was 51-44, falling short of the 60 votes needed to advance the measure. Only two Republicans — Senators Susan Collins of Maine and Lisa Murkowski of Alaska — sided with Democrats, just as they did in the first round.
“If Donald Trump and Republicans want to protect access to IVF, they can vote yes on it,” said Illinois Senator Tammy Duckworth, the bill’s sponsor, in a recent interview with CBS News. Duckworth, who has long been a champion of reproductive rights, challenged the GOP, pointing out how quickly they typically align with Trump’s views.
For millions of Americans struggling with infertility, the blocked legislation represents another hurdle in their journey to build families. Vice President Kamala Harris weighed in, stating, “Once again, Republicans have shown they are unwilling to protect the fertility treatments that many couples need to achieve their dream of parenthood.”
Harris, a leading voice in the reproductive rights conversation, emphasized that the right to make decisions about one’s own body includes access to fertility care, and she vowed that the administration would continue to fight for these rights.
