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 "fertility treatment" to include various procedures such as the preservation of reproductive materials, artificial insemination, assisted reproductive technology, genetic testing of embryos, and related services. It also outlines the rights of individuals, healthcare providers, healthcare insurers, and manufacturers regarding fertility treatments, ensuring that these parties can operate without prohibition, limitation, or interference, as long as they adhere to widely accepted and evidence-based medical standards of care.
Additionally, the bill provides a framework 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. The legislation stipulates that courts may award equitable relief and litigation costs to prevailing plaintiffs, thereby reinforcing the protection of fertility treatment rights in the state. Overall, the bill seeks to promote access to fertility treatments and safeguard the rights of all parties involved in the process.