A new Virginia law aims to expand access to fertility treatments like in vitro fertilization (IVF). Governor Glenn Youngkin signed House Bill 1609, introduced by Delegate Dan Helmer (D-Fairfax), after initially attempting to amend it. The bill requires the Health Insurance Reform Commission (HIRC) to consider including infertility diagnosis and treatment, as well as IVF, in its 2025 review of essential health benefits covered by insurance.
Delegate Helmer emphasized the importance of the timing, as HIRC’s review of health benefits is coming up. "The state will now have to seriously consider whether infertility care should be included in health insurance coverage for Virginians," Helmer stated.
Governor Youngkin initially sought to add an amendment that would allow non-governmental health insurance plans to opt out of covering infertility treatments for religious or ethical reasons. The legislature rejected this amendment, and Youngkin ultimately signed the bill in its original form. Despite this, Youngkin stressed the need for such exemptions to be considered if Virginia eventually mandates coverage, citing concerns about religious liberty.
The bill’s signing is seen as a step forward for those struggling with infertility in Virginia. Helmer, whose family member had to leave the state for IVF due to lack of coverage, has been pushing for this legislation for years. He expressed gratitude for bipartisan support and noted that the law could provide hope to families seeking fertility treatments without the burden of leaving Virginia.
The push for infertility coverage comes amid broader national debates on reproductive healthcare. Some states have moved to protect IVF access, while others face legal challenges, particularly following Alabama's controversial ruling that embryos are legally considered people.
Elizabeth Carr, the first person born via IVF in the United States, highlighted that IVF isn't solely for infertility. It also supports same-sex couples, surrogacy, genetic screening, and fertility preservation during cancer treatments.
Helmer expressed hope that the new law will help families stay in Virginia to start or grow their families, stating, "Nobody should have to leave their home to begin a family."
SOURCE: Virginia Mercury