Italy's lower house of parliament has taken a controversial step forward by approving a bill that would criminalize parents who use surrogate mothers, even if the process was legally carried out abroad. This move aligns with the socially conservative agenda pushed by Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni.
The bill, proposed by a lawmaker from Meloni's party, was supported by 166 lawmakers and the ruling coalition parties. It goes beyond the current law in Italy, which already bans surrogacy, by imposing fines and prison terms for parents who utilize surrogates, even in countries where it is legal. The punishment could range from three months to two years in prison, along with a hefty fine ranging from €600,000 to €1 million.
The exact number of Italian babies born through surrogates is unknown, but estimates suggest a few hundred per year. While the primary users of surrogacy tend to be heterosexual couples struggling with fertility issues, the law has been criticized for its discriminatory impact against same-sex couples. Campaign groups are urging for the issue to be addressed in discussions between Meloni and President Joe Biden during their meeting at the White House.
It's important to note that surrogacy is legal in some US states, highlighting the discrepancy between different jurisdictions. This raises questions about the impact of Italy's proposed law on citizens who have chosen to pursue surrogacy overseas in order to start a family.
While the bill has received approval from the lower house, it still needs to be passed by the senate. A vote is scheduled to take place after the summer break, and the senate is expected to support the bill. However, legal experts warn that the law could face constitutional challenges. Challenging its constitutionality could take years, and numerous cases would need to be resolved in court.
The approval of this bill reflects Italy's growing conservative stance on social and family issues. If implemented, it will have significant implications for individuals seeking surrogacy as part of their family-building journey, potentially leading to legal battles and further debates regarding reproductive rights and LGBTQ+ rights in the country.