The Trump administration has stepped back from its earlier promise to require health insurers to cover in vitro fertilization (IVF), according to a report by the Washington Post.
In August 2024, President Trump announced plans to mandate insurance coverage for IVF, aiming to boost birthrates by making fertility treatments more accessible. However, more than six months into his second term, no federal subsidies or regulations enforcing IVF coverage through Obamacare plans have been introduced.
A senior official explained that while the president remains committed to expanding fertility treatment access, legal limitations prevent the administration from unilaterally requiring insurers to cover IVF without congressional approval. It remains uncertain whether the White House will pursue new legislation on the matter.
White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson affirmed the administration’s dedication to supporting Americans struggling with infertility, emphasizing a commitment to pro-family health initiatives.
Notably, some pro-life groups oppose IVF due to ethical concerns over embryo destruction. Reflecting this, the administration is exploring fertility approaches focused on improving overall health and lifestyle rather than relying solely on IVF, according to a White House adviser.
Within the Republican Party, there is division: some support broader IVF access to address declining birthrates, while others caution about increased insurance premiums and legal authority questions. Experts note that IVF coverage is currently uncommon among insurers, making any mandate a significant change.
Earlier this year, Trump signed an executive order directing efforts to reduce IVF costs, reinforcing the administration’s focus on pro-family health policies.
