The ongoing U.S. presidential election has brought reproductive rights to the forefront of national discourse, particularly in the context of in vitro fertilization (IVF). As women grapple with the emotional challenges of infertility and the logistical hurdles of IVF, concerns about access to fertility care have intensified, especially in various states where such services may be under threat. However, in California, a new law has significantly bolstered assurances for IVF patients.
On September 29, Governor Gavin Newsom signed Senate Bill 729, a landmark piece of legislation aimed at expanding access to reproductive healthcare across the state. This bill mandates that large group health plans and disability insurance policies cover IVF-related costs, including necessary testing and treatments. The legislation will take effect for all plans issued, amended, or renewed on or after July 1, 2025.
SB 729 specifically requires insurers to cover expenses for up to three completed oocyte (egg) retrievals and unlimited embryo transfers—an approach endorsed by RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association, which advocates that this provision enhances patients’ chances of achieving successful pregnancies. Importantly, the new law also eliminates previous barriers for unpartnered individuals and members of the LGBTQ+ community, as it no longer mandates couples to attempt natural conception prior to accessing fertility assistance.
“This is a personal and emotional victory,” expressed State Senator Caroline Menjivar, the bill’s author, in a statement. She emphasized that the new legislation represents a significant triumph for many Californians who have faced financial barriers, relationship status discrimination, or challenges related to their LGBTQ+ identity in their pursuit of family-building.
Menjivar noted in a separate post on X (formerly Twitter) that the successful passage of this bill has been two years in the making, supported by decades of advocacy and legislative efforts.
The implications of this new law are profound, as it is projected to benefit approximately nine million Californians enrolled in qualifying health plans when they seek IVF or fertility assistance. However, it’s important to note that those receiving health coverage from religious employers or enrolled in Medi-Cal will not qualify for the benefits under this legislation, as highlighted by the Pacific Fertility Center Los Angeles.
With this legislation, California joins at least fifteen other states that have enacted IVF insurance coverage mandates. For residents seeking information on their state’s fertility insurance laws, REVOLVE offers a summary and a coverage map.
In announcing the new bill, Governor Newsom criticized Republican lawmakers who recently opposed a federal initiative aimed at ensuring nationwide access to IVF and related insurance coverage. “California is a proud reproductive freedom state, and that includes increasing access to fertility services that help those who want to start a family,” he stated. “While Republicans across the country continue to claw back rights and block access to IVF—claiming to be the party of families—we are proud to empower every Californian to make their own choices about the family they want.”
As California takes this progressive step forward, the adage “As California goes, so goes the nation” resonates more than ever, signaling a potential shift in how reproductive healthcare, particularly fertility services, may be approached across the United States.
Related topics:
