On Thursday, Speaker Mike Johnson voiced his belief that Congress should not intervene in the ongoing debate over IVF legislation. This statement comes in response to the recent controversial ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court and the subsequent push by some House Republicans for federal involvement.
Speaking at the annual Republican issues conference at The Greenbrier resort in West Virginia, Johnson stated, “I think this is being handled by the states.” He further asserted that his party supports access to IVF, emphasizing the need for it to be conducted “ethically and well.”
Meanwhile, the Republican party is grappling with its stance on abortion. Marjorie Dannenfelser, President of Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America, is set to discuss a “pro-family agenda” at the retreat. In contrast, Vice President Kamala Harris will visit a Planned Parenthood clinic in Minnesota, highlighting the differing approaches to reproductive rights.
Johnson is facing pressure to demonstrate support for IVF access, particularly after the Alabama Supreme Court’s ruling that frozen embryos are human beings. This ruling has led to a temporary halt in services by some IVF providers in Alabama, forcing families to seek treatment out of state.
Two Republican-led efforts are underway in the House to express support for IVF accessibility. Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer of Oregon and Rep. Nancy Mace of South Carolina have both introduced non-binding resolutions. Mace has been lobbying Johnson to bring her bill to the floor, expressing willingness to modify the measure if necessary.
On the Democratic side, Rep. Susan Wild of Pennsylvania has introduced legislation to prevent restrictions on access to assisted reproductive technology. This bill has received support from moderate Republican Rep. Marc Molinaro of New York.
However, the issue has also caused some controversy within the Republican party. Last week, California GOP Rep. Michelle Steel withdrew her support for the Life at Conception Act due to concerns about potential confusion regarding her stance on IVF.
Efforts to protect IVF in the Senate have also faced obstacles, with Republicans blocking two legislative attempts in recent weeks. Democrats have tried to expedite the process through unanimous consent, but these efforts have been thwarted by Republican objections.
Contributors to this report include CNN’s Morgan Rimmer, Lauren Mascarenhas and Isabel Rosales.