The "In Vitro Fertilization Protection Act" aims to amend South Carolina law by adding a new chapter that defines "assistive reproductive technologies" and establishes protections for individuals seeking to access these technologies. The bill outlines that assistive reproductive technologies include procedures such as in vitro fertilization, egg and embryo donation, and gestational surrogacy. It emphasizes the state's public policy to ensure equitable access to these technologies and states that any undue burden on individuals seeking to utilize them is a violation of the law. Additionally, practitioners are not mandated to preserve reproductive materials but must provide appropriate preservation if a patient chooses to do so.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that a fertilized human egg or embryo outside of a human body is not to be classified as an unborn child or any other term that implies it is a human being under state law. This provision aims to delineate the legal status of embryos in the context of reproductive technologies, ensuring that they are not afforded the same rights as living persons. The act will take effect upon the Governor's approval.

Statutes affected:
12/11/2024: 16-3-100
01/08/2025: 16-3-100
Latest Version: 16-3-100