S.1882 - Reproductive Empowerment and Support through Optimal Restoration Act; RESTORE Act (119th Congress)
Summary
S.1882, the RESTORE Act, aims to expand research and data collection on reproductive health conditions, provide training opportunities for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating these conditions, and prohibit discrimination against healthcare providers who do not participate in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The bill defines various terms related to reproductive health, including 'restorative reproductive medicine' and 'fertility awareness-based methods.' It mandates literature reviews, expands the National Survey of Family Growth, and includes access to Title X award funds for restorative reproductive medicine grantees.
Expected Effects
The RESTORE Act would likely increase funding and focus on restorative reproductive medicine and fertility awareness-based methods. This could lead to increased research, better training for medical professionals, and more comprehensive data collection. It may also shift some resources away from assisted reproductive technologies.
Potential Benefits
- Increased research into reproductive health conditions like endometriosis and PCOS.
- Improved training for medical professionals in restorative reproductive medicine.
- Greater access to information and services related to fertility awareness-based methods.
- Protection for healthcare providers who decline to participate in ART due to religious or moral beliefs.
- Modernization of medical coding to accurately classify and reimburse providers of restorative treatments.
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential shift of resources away from assisted reproductive technologies, which may limit options for some individuals.
- Possible conflicts with existing laws or regulations regarding reproductive healthcare.
- The emphasis on 'restorative' methods may be perceived as biased against other approaches to infertility treatment.
- The definition of 'infertility' may exclude some individuals seeking reproductive assistance.
- The bill's focus on specific reproductive health conditions may neglect other important aspects of women's healthcare.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is complex. The emphasis on religious freedom for healthcare providers aligns with the First Amendment's guarantee of religious expression. However, the bill's potential impact on access to reproductive healthcare may raise concerns related to privacy rights and equal protection under the Fourteenth Amendment. The expansion of data collection and research falls under Congress's power to promote the general welfare, as outlined in the Preamble.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).