AG James Voices Support for Legalization of Surrogacy in New York

Attorney General Letitia James released the following statement in support of legalizing gestational surrogacy in New York:

Letitia James, NYS Attorney General

“Our antiquated surrogacy ban makes it prohibitively expensive and burdensome for many New Yorkers to become parents. Countless families, particularly members of the LGBTQ community and those with fertility issues, have been unable to have a child through surrogacy because of this outdated law. The current proposal has been well-researched, well-written, and will not only support families, but provide critical legal and medical protections to surrogates, parents, and children. I respect the legislative process and look forward to meeting with members of the legislature to address their concerns so we can move forward to adopt this proposal.”

“New York is one of the most progressive states in the nation and a leader in LGBTQ and women’s rights, and yet we are only one of three states that does not allow LGBTQ individuals and people struggling with fertility to conceive a child and start a family through gestational surrogacy,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “We need to right that wrong, and with the support of the Attorney General and our broad coalition of advocates, this year we will get it done and complete marriage and family equality.”

“We’re glad to see Attorney General Letitia James support this important effort to legalize gestational surrogacy, which will make it easier for many couples – including same-sex couples – to start families. We support this effort, and hope to see it become law in New York,” said Alphonso David, president of the Human Rights Campaign.

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