South Dakota House Bill HC8004

South Dakota 2023 Regular Session

Caption

Recognizing South Dakota Infertility Awareness Day and families from South Dakota Surrogacy, Inc.

Impact

The commemoration advocates for greater understanding of infertility and encourages the removal of barriers that hinder access to essential family building options. By raising awareness around this issue, it aims to promote better access to medical treatments such as in vitro fertilization and third-party reproduction, as well as adoption. The legislative recognition also serves to connect families impacted by infertility with lawmakers, creating a platform for dialogue about healthcare access and family support.

Summary

House Commemoration 8004 recognizes January 24, 2023, as South Dakota Infertility Awareness Day. This legislation is aimed at raising awareness about infertility, which is defined as a disease by the World Health Organization and the American Medical Association. The commemoration acknowledges that infertility impacts a significant number of couples—about one in eight—and affects individuals regardless of race, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. Furthermore, it seeks to highlight the challenges faced by all family types attempting to build their families, including barriers related to costs and insurance coverage.

Contention

While the bill itself is a commemoration rather than a controversial legislative change, it highlights ongoing discussions regarding healthcare policies related to infertility treatments and the obstacles faced by individuals seeking these services. The support from RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association and South Dakota Surrogacy, Inc. signifies a collaborative effort to address and advocate for infertility awareness throughout the state. However, the barriers related to cost and insurance remain areas of contention that may demand further legislative attention.