Surrogate Bill Passes | Video

Jessica Roose | 3/8/2013

In cases of surrogacy, who should have to pay for the pregnancy related expenses? State lawmakers answered that question clearly this afternoon.

Senate Bill 2081 is short and simple, just stating that all pregnancy related services, including labor and delivery are to be paid for by the intended parents. The bill was brought up by the Department of Human Services, which claimed that some surrogates had been applying for Medicaid during pregnancy.

"The department believes the pregnancy-related cost of a woman who agrees to become pregnant to bear a child for another person or couple, is the responsibility of the intended parents and should not be the responsibility of a program that is designed to meet the needs of low income and disabled individuals," said Representative Dick Anderson (R) from Willow City.

No one spoke in opposition to the bill. It passed unanimously out of both chambers and now goes to the Governor for consideration.

COMMENT ON THIS STORY