For many intended parents, the dream of building a family through surrogacy begins with access to fertility care. California SB 729, a newly signed bill, brings that dream one step closer by expanding insurance coverage for infertility treatments, including in vitro fertilization (IVF).
While this legislation doesn’t cover the costs of surrogacy itself, it does mark a powerful shift in removing financial barriers and opening doors for more individuals and couples to pursue parenthood through gestational surrogacy. At Joy of Life, we recognize how deeply access matters, and we’re here to help you understand what this new law means for your future family.
What Is SB 729?
You may be wondering, what is SB 729 in California, and why does it matter for intended parents?
SB 729, also known as the Equal Insurance Coverage for Infertility bill, is a groundbreaking piece of legislation that requires private health insurance plans in California to cover infertility treatment, including IVF. It ensures that coverage is inclusive, applying regardless of a person’s gender identity, sexual orientation or relationship status.
In other words, whether you’re a same-sex couple, a single intended parent or someone navigating medical infertility, California SB 729 affirms your right to access the medical care that can lead to parenthood.
What SB 729 Covers and What It Doesn’t
California SB 729 requires that state-regulated health insurance plans cover infertility diagnosis and treatment, including IVF insurance and fertility preservation. This is a breakthrough for many intended parents who’ve had to pay for IVF entirely out of pocket.
However, SB 729 does not cover costs related to gestational surrogacy itself, such as:
- Surrogate compensation
- Agency support and coordination
- Legal contracts and screenings
The law strictly addresses medical infertility treatment coverage, not the surrogacy journey that may follow.
Who This Law Helps and Why It Matters
While SB 729 doesn’t pay for surrogacy directly, it lifts a significant financial barrier, making parenthood through surrogacy more realistic for many. IVF is often the first major hurdle, both emotionally and financially.
This change expands access to essential fertility care for more individuals and couples, whether you’re part of the LGBTQ+ community, pursuing parenthood on your own or navigating medical infertility. It brings fertility benefits more in line with the diverse ways families are built today.
At Joy of Life, we see firsthand how powerful this change is. SB 729 represents a growing recognition that every path to parenthood deserves care, support and respect.
SB 729 Is Coming — Here’s When and Why It Matters
California SB 729 was signed into law on September 29, 2024, marking a major milestone in expanding access to fertility care. But the journey from legislation to real-world impact takes time. The law’s coverage requirements are set to take effect on January 1, 2026.
Why the delay? State leaders extended the timeline to give insurance providers and healthcare systems time to prepare. This includes defining what services must be covered and ensuring that IVF insurance is implemented consistently and equitably across the board.
For intended parents, this waiting period can feel long, but it also creates space to plan. Whether you’re just beginning to explore IVF and surrogacy or already envisioning the road ahead, now is the perfect time to ask questions, gather information and build the support system you’ll need.
Have Questions About Surrogacy or SB 729? We’re Here to Help
Whether you’re just starting to explore surrogacy or wondering how California SB 729 might shape your journey, our team is here to guide you with clarity and care.
At Joy of Life, we support intended parents every step of the way, from early planning to holding your baby in your arms.
If you’re ready to learn more or simply want to talk through your options, contact us today and take the first step toward building the family you’ve been dreaming of.
