Rockland Reporter

Valhalla, NY - Congressman Mike Lawler held a press conference today at the Westchester Medical Center to introduce new legislation aimed at expanding access to in vitro fertilization (IVF) for families in New York. The proposed IVF Access and Affordability Act would establish a tax credit of $20,000 for individuals and $40,000 for couples filing jointly to cover assisted reproductive technology expenses.

"In Congress, I’ve been proud to take bold action, becoming just the second Republican lawmaker to sign onto Rep. Susan Wild’s bill, the Access to Family Building Act, which would codify federal protections for IVF," said Congressman Lawler. "I’ve also joined a group of my bipartisan colleagues in putting forth the HOPE with Fertility Services Act, which requires private insurance companies to cover treatments for infertility. There are a number of creative solutions to ensure IVF access and affordability for families, and I am proud to represent the Hudson Valley in supporting these valiant efforts."

Lawler shared his personal connection to the issue: "On a personal level, my wife and I have gone through challenges along the way to build our own family, and for so many families across the Hudson Valley and across New York and across the country, getting pregnant is a challenge. For many, access to IVF is critical towards ensuring they are able to enjoy parenthood and bring life into this world."

Carol, a former OBGYN nurse of 25 years, expressed her support: "I'd thank Congressman Lawler for introducing this legislation that would have a tremendous impact on many women and families I work with over the years. A $40,000 tax credit for families pursuing fertility services would have been life-changing and would have allowed many families to keep trying for the precious gift of a child."

Nicole from Putnam County also spoke about her experience with IVF: "With this bill, you would be changing the outcome of future families and providing hope for those who are going through infertility. Fertility treatment and IVF is the light at the end of the tunnel for many."

The legislation has garnered endorsements from several organizations including the Greater New York Hospital Association (GNYHA), Academy of Adoption and Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA), and Hadassah.

"This important bill addresses a longstanding challenge facing too many New Yorkers: access to affordable fertility treatments," said GNYHA President Kenneth E. Raske. "Congressman Lawler’s IVF Access and Affordability Act provides significant Federal tax credits to help ensure access to assisted reproductive technologies."

AAAA echoed similar sentiments: "This tax credit for fertility treatments will help many people access medical options and support to help them grow their families," stated AAAA representatives.

Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz highlighted how infertility affects Jewish families as well: "Too many families feel heartbroken and helpless in their journey towards parenthood because of infertility challenges. Hadassah supports a wide array of options to make infertility treatments more accessible."

Congressman Lawler represents New York's 17th Congressional District which includes parts of Rockland, Putnam, Dutchess, and Westchester Counties.

Video from today's press conference can be viewed HERE.