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Michigan House passes fertility-fraud measure after floor debate, orders immediate effect
Summary
The Michigan House passed House Bill 5035, part of a package aimed at criminalizing and providing civil remedies for deceptive practices in assisted reproduction. Supporters framed the bills as protections for families and urged immediate effect; the measure passed 61-48.
The Michigan House passed House Bill 5035 on third reading after floor debate over a package of measures supporters described as addressing "fertility fraud." Lawmakers approved the bill by a roll-call vote of 61-48 and the majority moved — and the chamber ordered — immediate effect.
Supporters, including Representative Saint Germain, said the package is intended to protect people who use in vitro fertilization and other assisted-reproduction services from intentional deception about genetic material. "These bills are about protecting women by providing guardrails when a woman chooses to have a child through IVF," Representative Saint Germain said on the floor, arguing the measures aim to preserve identity, medical history and trust.
Representative Roth also urged passage, citing constituent stories in which donor material was allegedly substituted and lives were upended by unexpected DNA test results. "This bill package introduces penalties, fines, a clear statute of limitations, [and a] pathways for civil action," Roth said, framing the legislation as establishing accountability and remedies for victims.
Both speakers emphasized that the bills are not intended to punish honest mistakes by providers but to create criminal and civil consequences for intentional fraud. Roth described lawsuits and high-profile cases — including a referenced case involving a Yale fertility doctor — as evidence that the problem persists.
The chamber recorded the final vote and the clerk announced that a majority of members elected and serving had voted in favor; the majority floor leader then moved for immediate effect, which was ordered on the House floor. Supporters asked that the bills be sent promptly to the governor.
What happens next: With the House passage and the order for immediate effect, the bill is advanced toward final enactment steps; the bill will be transmitted to the governor as provided under legislative procedure.
