Assemblywomen Katz, Murphy, and Simmons to Introduce Legislation to Codify IVF Access in New Jersey

Thousands of New Jersey families who depend on IVF access are under threat of recent court cases and pending federal legislation

(TRENTON) – The February decision by the Alabama Supreme Court to effectively stop all in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments showed how quickly rights for women can be stripped away. An estimated 2,000 children are born each year in New Jersey using IVF and parents are depending on it to start or grow their families.

“I was horrified when I saw the Alabama Supreme Court decision last month and knew that we needed to act immediately in New Jersey. There are thousands of parents depending on IVF to start and grow their families and they deserve peace of mind knowing that it is here to stay,” said Assemblywoman Andrea Katz (D-Chesterfield). “A poll earlier this month showed that an astounding 86% of Americans support IVF and my bill would expressly protect access in New Jersey.”

The bill would amend the 2021 NJ law that provides reproductive freedom to expressly include the right to IVF access.

“Women have been victim to unprecedented attacks on their right to make their own healthcare decisions. I have fought for reproductive healthcare and the right for a woman to make their own decisions,” said Assemblywoman Carol Murphy (D-Mount Laurel). “This is why I support legislation to continue protecting women’s healthcare by protecting IVF, so that more women can receive the care they need and start a family on their terms. We must continue this fight otherwise our fundamental rights will continue to be stripped away.”

“At a time when personal freedoms are under attack, I’m proud to introduce legislation that will protect women’s rights,” said Assemblywoman Heather Simmons (D-Glassboro). “IVF access is under threat from some courts and politicians and New Jersey must take action immediately.”