As a dad of six, including two adopted daughters, I know what it means to build a family. I also know that for too many Iowa families, the biggest barrier to parenthood isn’t medical — it’s financial.
The problem: A single round of in vitro fertilization (IVF) can cost up to $25,000, and many couples require multiple cycles to be successful. While most insurance plans cover pregnancy and delivery, they often don’t cover the fertility care needed to get there.
Why it matters: Nearly 10 million Americans are facing infertility. The treatment exists — but without coverage, too many families are left with a diagnosis and no clear path forward. If an insurance plan covers having a baby, it should also cover the care required to make that possible.
That’s why I brought together Republicans and Democrats to introduce the HOPE with Fertility Services Act — legislation designed to expand fertility coverage within employer-sponsored insurance, where most families receive their plans. ⬇️
We introduced this bill alongside doctors and patient advocates who’ve spent years fighting for change. As one physician put it:
“One of the greatest challenges we face is the ability to diagnose a condition that we cannot treat because a patient lacks insurance coverage. Other diseases are not approached this way.”
They’re right — no other condition is treated this way. Our bill makes sure fertility care is covered like any other medical need — so families can access treatment, not just a diagnosis.
Bottom Line: Expanding access to fertility care means helping more Iowa families experience the same joy Kelly and I have — being called “mom” and “dad.” I’ll keep fighting until we get this across the finish line.