The proposed bill aims to protect fertility treatment rights in Arkansas by establishing a new subchapter under Arkansas Code Title 20, Chapter 9, titled "Fertility Treatment Rights." This subchapter defines various terms related to fertility treatment, including "fertility treatment," "healthcare provider," "healthcare insurer," and "manufacturer." It outlines the rights of individuals to receive fertility treatment, continue ongoing treatments, and make decisions regarding reproductive genetic material without any prohibitions or limitations. Additionally, it grants rights to healthcare providers, insurers, and manufacturers to provide, cover, and distribute fertility treatments in accordance with widely accepted medical standards.
The bill also includes provisions for enforcement, allowing individuals or entities adversely affected by violations of these rights to initiate civil actions against those who impose limitations on fertility treatment. Courts may award equitable relief and litigation costs to prevailing plaintiffs. The legislation emphasizes adherence to evidence-based medical standards and ensures that state laws regarding medical facilities do not infringe upon the rights established in this subchapter, provided they align with accepted medical practices.