A new bill in the Nevada Legislature aims to expand access to in-vitro fertilization (IVF) for families in the state. Senate Bill 217, introduced to the Health and Human Services Committee on Thursday, is designed to increase IVF availability, taking inspiration from Colorado’s Building Families Act.
Democratic State Senator Nicole Cannizzaro, one of the primary sponsors of the bill, emphasized the importance of these treatments. They provide hope and opportunity for those struggling with infertility, same-sex couples seeking biological parenthood, and individuals with medical conditions that affect fertility,” she said.
Cannizzaro was joined by Amanda Klein, the founder of Nevada Fertility Advocates, who has personal experience with infertility. Klein shared her journey, stating, “My husband and I struggled with infertility for five years. I underwent IVF, had several miscarriages, and eventually had to hire a surrogate to have our daughter. She’s the reason I do this work today.”
Klein has been working alongside Senator Cannizzaro on the bill for the past year. SB 217 would cover IVF treatments and fertility preservation for people diagnosed with conditions such as cancer.
Klein also highlighted the widespread nature of infertility, saying, “One in six Nevadans face infertility, which is recognized as a disease by the American Medical Association, just like cancer or diabetes. Insurance companies should treat it the same way.”
The bill has faced opposition, particularly regarding its stance on fertilized eggs and embryos. Melissa Clement from Nevada Right to Life criticized the language in the bill, stating, “SB 217 clearly states that fertilized eggs and embryos before implantation are not legally considered persons. This is neither scientific nor medical.”
Other critics, like Shelly Capurro from the Nevada Association of Health Plans, expressed concerns about the financial impact. She noted that infertility coverage mandates for large employers could lead to higher costs for both employers and employees.
In response, Klein acknowledged the cost implications but emphasized the bipartisan nature of the issue. “It’s important to work together, both Republicans and Democrats, to get this bill to a point where we can all agree,” she said.
The bill is now set to move to the finance committee for further discussion.
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