Senator Ted Cruz introduced a bill focusing on IVF that aims to protect and create federal protections for IVF access. The bill proposes that states would be ineligible to receive Medicaid funding if they banned IVF. Cruz emphasized his strong support for IVF, citing its technological advancements and the hope it has provided to millions of parents who couldn't otherwise have children. He highlighted the significant impact of IVF, with two percent of all births in America coming from IVF and over 80 million babies born through the procedure.
Cruz clarified that the bill was drafted in collaboration with Senator Katie Britt of Alabama to ensure that no state could ban IVF. By tying the protection of IVF to Medicaid funding, Cruz aimed to create a federal safeguard against potential state bans. He explained that using Medicaid funding as a condition for compliance is a common method employed by Congress to impose federal restrictions on states.
While acknowledging that Alabama did not ban IVF but faced uncertainties following a Supreme Court ruling, Cruz underscored the importance of passing a federal law to protect IVF access nationwide. He addressed concerns about fear-mongering and emphasized the need to alleviate anxieties surrounding IVF regulations.
Regarding the Texas Supreme Court ruling on abortion, Cruz expressed support for empowering doctors to make determinations under the law. He distinguished between abortion and IVF, noting that while abortion remains a divisive issue, IVF enjoys broad support among Americans.
Cruz reiterated the significance of state autonomy in deciding abortion laws while advocating for federal protection of IVF rights. He emphasized the need for clarity and standards in addressing complex medical decisions, such as those related to abortion and IVF.
