LANSING, Mich. — Michigan senators passed a bill package Tuesday that would eliminate barriers in the state’s surrogacy laws.
The Fertility Health Care Act (FHCA) is comprised of nine bills that would secure access to fertility care by means of surrogacy and in vitro fertilization.
"These bills not only update Michigan law but will put Michigan at the forefront of access to fertility health care," Rep. Samantha Steckloff previously said.
The bill package has critics, among them the Michigan Catholic Conference (MCC).
"Significant concern as the legalization of surrogacy contracts and allowing compensation in exchange for a child at the core of such agreements is a contract for a human being," said MCC Policy Advocate Rebecca Mastee.
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Rep. Samantha Steckloff (D–Farmington Hills) applauded the bills' passage with the following statement:
“Today marks a resounding victory for all Michiganders. I’ve been working tirelessly on this legislation for years, so I’m thrilled that this package has finally passed both the House and Senate. Now our laws are set to protect people’s right to decide when and how to grow their family — an achievement made possible by the hard work and dedication of all those who supported this effort. These laws will not only protect the rights of patients and medical professionals, but also pave the way for countless families who rely on IVF as their path to parenthood. As we celebrate this victory, let’s continue to advocate for reproductive autonomy and ensure fertility treatments are accessible to all who need them.”
The FHCA passed the state House in November.
The bills now head to Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's desk for signing.
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