In a disappointing turn of events, the Senate voted against advancing a bill that would have established federal protections for in vitro fertilization (IVF). The procedural measure, which required 60 votes, fell short as all but two Republicans present voted against it.

The proposed bill aimed to recognize the right to utilize reproductive technologies such as IVF. It would have mandated that federal health plans, including the Affordable Care Act and Medicaid, cover these treatments. Additionally, military members and veterans would have gained increased access to fertility counseling and treatments.

Democrats introduced the bill as a means to hold Republicans accountable on reproductive rights ahead of the upcoming November elections. However, their efforts were met with resistance from the majority of Republicans present, with only Senators Susan Collins (R-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), both supporters of abortion rights, voting in favor of advancing the bill.

Notably, Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-N.Y.) changed his vote to "No," ensuring the option to bring the bill up for another vote in the future.

While the bill's failure is disappointing for those advocating for increased reproductive rights and access to fertility treatments, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing political divide on these issues.

It is worth mentioning that Independent senators Angus King of Maine, Joe Manchin III of West Virginia, Bernie Sanders of Vermont, and Kyrsten Sinema of Arizona caucus with the Democrats.

The rejected bill, S.4445 Access to Family Building Act, can be found in its entirety on the U.S. Senate website. As the debate surrounding reproductive rights continues, it remains to be seen if further action will be taken to address the need for federal protections for in vitro fertilization and related fertility treatments.