Alabama’s Supreme Court ruled on February 16, 2024, that frozen embryos created by IVF are considered children under Alabama law – the state’s Wrongful Death of a Minor Act.   Just recently patients met with Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra in order to explain how the ruling has effectively placing all IVF treatments at a standstill – leaving patients and clinics confused and uncertain.  Although the state’s attorney general, Steve Marshall, has stated that he would not prosecute any other IVF clinics or those families undergoing IVF, the uncertain legal atmosphere has left clinics and doctors worried about facing civil lawsuits or even criminal penalties. 

            The ruling primarily cited the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health, which overturned Roe v. Wade, in reaching their decision.  The Justices also cited an Alabama constitutional amendment that voters passed in 2018 that established no one had a right to abortion in the state, while also declaring “the sanctity of unborn life and the rights of unborn children.” 

            For more on Alabama’s Supreme Court ruling, click here to read the full article from 19News.Org.

            Want to learn more about your options for Surrogacy and IVF and how we can help protect you on your journey, including the costs? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today at www.SageFamilyAssociation.com or by calling 984-303-1041.