Policy Update from the ASRM Office of Public Affairs: SART Membership Now Mandatory in Tennessee
In April 2024, the abrupt closure of the Center for Reproductive Health in Nashville left patients without clear answers regarding the status of their reproductive material. As threats emerged that the state might assert guardianship over that tissue, ASRM’s Office of Public Affairs recognized the potential for a detrimental legislative response and jumped into action.
With funding approved by the ASRM Board of Directors, we hired a Tennessee-based contract lobbyist with deep ties to state legislators and key stakeholder groups, including the Tennessee Medical Society and ACOG.
At the start of the 2025 legislative session, two personhood bills were introduced, defining life and “unborn child” as beginning at fertilization. Alongside them, an amended bill sought to impose significant new restrictions on ART clinics and practitioners, including requiring mandatory certification through the state Board of Health. Most concerning, the bill would have directed the Department of Health, in collaboration with the Attorney General, to develop a model contractual agreement for practitioners and patients seeking ART services, incorporating the following provisions:
There is no doubt that this bill would have had a devastating impact on patient care. Fortunately, with the aid of testimony from ASRM members practicing in Tennessee, the bill failed to pass in 2025.
In anticipation of the bill’s reintroduction in 2026, our office worked closely with the Tennessee Medical Society to develop alternative legislation, which we offered to the bill’s sponsor and key legislative leaders as a constructive path forward.
Our approach was deliberate: rather than imposing new regulations on clinics and providers, our bill clarified existing regulatory and oversight frameworks and required compliance with SART guidelines. We were guided by an established model in California, where SART members are exempt from regulations pertaining to advertising to prospective egg donors. Furthermore, we drew on precedent at the federal level using CLIAA as an example of the government allowing expert non-profit groups to guide the substantive part of a government regulatory program.
Once again, ASRM members' willingness to share their expertise proved vital. Tennessee clinics opened their doors to Senate leaders and explained the layers of regulations SART-certified clinics already abide by.
In May 2026, the bill passed, and on May 22, 2026, Governor Bill Lee signed it into law.
While the law still requires medical facilities performing ART procedures to obtain certification from the Tennessee Department of Health, it now requires SART membership, which it cites as the “gold standard” prerequisite for that certification.
As declared in the law, SART membership reflects a commitment to high standards in assisted reproductive technology, including clinical quality, laboratory practices, data reporting, and patient care. This new requirement will help ensure that patients seeking fertility treatment in Tennessee can access care from clinics that meet nationally recognized standards.
Though we are not proactively seeking this type of legislative requirement for clinics in other states, we consider it a viable, protective model to offer if and when legislators express a desire to regulate ART.
We are grateful to our members in Tennessee who opened their doors and shared their expertise, to our advocacy partners, and to ASRM and SART for their support.
We will share the details of the law’s enrollment and regulations as the state puts them out.
With funding approved by the ASRM Board of Directors, we hired a Tennessee-based contract lobbyist with deep ties to state legislators and key stakeholder groups, including the Tennessee Medical Society and ACOG.
At the start of the 2025 legislative session, two personhood bills were introduced, defining life and “unborn child” as beginning at fertilization. Alongside them, an amended bill sought to impose significant new restrictions on ART clinics and practitioners, including requiring mandatory certification through the state Board of Health. Most concerning, the bill would have directed the Department of Health, in collaboration with the Attorney General, to develop a model contractual agreement for practitioners and patients seeking ART services, incorporating the following provisions:
- A prohibition on genetic testing for embryo selection
- A restriction limiting the number of embryos fertilized to no more than four times the number of children a prospective parent intended to have
- Requirements governing the custodial care of unused or abandoned embryos
There is no doubt that this bill would have had a devastating impact on patient care. Fortunately, with the aid of testimony from ASRM members practicing in Tennessee, the bill failed to pass in 2025.
In anticipation of the bill’s reintroduction in 2026, our office worked closely with the Tennessee Medical Society to develop alternative legislation, which we offered to the bill’s sponsor and key legislative leaders as a constructive path forward.
Our approach was deliberate: rather than imposing new regulations on clinics and providers, our bill clarified existing regulatory and oversight frameworks and required compliance with SART guidelines. We were guided by an established model in California, where SART members are exempt from regulations pertaining to advertising to prospective egg donors. Furthermore, we drew on precedent at the federal level using CLIAA as an example of the government allowing expert non-profit groups to guide the substantive part of a government regulatory program.
Once again, ASRM members' willingness to share their expertise proved vital. Tennessee clinics opened their doors to Senate leaders and explained the layers of regulations SART-certified clinics already abide by.
In May 2026, the bill passed, and on May 22, 2026, Governor Bill Lee signed it into law.
While the law still requires medical facilities performing ART procedures to obtain certification from the Tennessee Department of Health, it now requires SART membership, which it cites as the “gold standard” prerequisite for that certification.
As declared in the law, SART membership reflects a commitment to high standards in assisted reproductive technology, including clinical quality, laboratory practices, data reporting, and patient care. This new requirement will help ensure that patients seeking fertility treatment in Tennessee can access care from clinics that meet nationally recognized standards.
Though we are not proactively seeking this type of legislative requirement for clinics in other states, we consider it a viable, protective model to offer if and when legislators express a desire to regulate ART.
We are grateful to our members in Tennessee who opened their doors and shared their expertise, to our advocacy partners, and to ASRM and SART for their support.
We will share the details of the law’s enrollment and regulations as the state puts them out.
Fertility in the News
Policy Update from the ASRM Office of Public Affairs: SART Membership Now Mandatory in Tennessee
ASRM-backed Tennessee law makes SART membership mandatory for ART clinic certification, strengthening fertility care standards and oversight.
ASRM Releases First Updated Guidance on Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in Over a Decade
ASRM updates recurrent pregnancy loss guidance with evidence-based evaluation, targeted care, and emotional support during High-Risk Pregnancy Week.Resources For You
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is committed to providing patients with the highest quality information about reproductive care.
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help you explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments.
Frequently Asked Questions
ASRM's Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) provides answers to common questions about reproductive health.
Patient Journeys
ASRM has resources and publications to help you through each stage of your journey.
State and Territory Infertility Insurance Laws
One way that ASRM works to improve access to fertility care is by advocating for insurance coverage for reproductive medicine care. All patients should have access to the care they need.
Fact Sheets and Infographics
ASRM produces a series of fact sheets and booklets on various topics related to infertility, reproductive health, and family planning. The fact sheets and booklets are available in English, Spanish, and Chinese.
Reproductive Rights and You
The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. We need your help!
Reproductive Topics
Find all the resources on a specific topic compiled onto a single page.
SART Fertility Experts Podcast
An educational project of ASRM's affiliated society, the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART), this series is designed to provide up to date information about a variety of topics related to fertility testing and treatment such as IVF.
Patient Education Videos
ASRM and its affiliated society SART have made several videos to explain the sometimes difficult topics related to reproductive medicine.
Terms and Definitions
Find explanations for the meaning behind the doctor-speak you hear when trying to research reproductive medicine topics. ASRM has defined the most popular terms in easy to understand language.
Patient Stories
Read real-life stories from patients who have faced reproductive medicine challenges and come out stronger on the other side.
Fertility in the News
ASRM Press Releases and Bulletins are published by ASRM's Office of Public Affairs to inform the world about important happenings in reproductive medicine and at ASRM.
Find a Health Professional
Connect with reproductive medicine experts who will guide you through your unique journey. Our search tool allows personalized matches based on location, specialization, and expertise. Take control of your reproductive health with compassionate providers, innovative treatments, and unwavering support.
Search for an Expert
Assisted Reproductive Technologies
Genetic Screening/Testing
ASRM Ethics and Practice Committees Release New Report Concluding Polygenic Embryo Screening Is Not Ready for Clinical Use
New analysis finds that PGT-P lacks proven clinical utility and raises significant scientific and ethical concerns View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - PGT-A and Mosaicism
Explore PGT-A, a genetic screening test for embryos, discussing its role in IVF, accuracy, candidates, mosaicism, and the future of fertility treatments. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Preconception Counseling
This podcast episode covers the topic of preconception counseling. Listen to the Episode
Genetic Screening for Birth Defects
Birth defects, which occur in nearly one in 20 pregnancies, range in severity from minor anatomic abnormalities to extensive genetic disorders or mental retardation. Some couples have a greater than average risk of having a child with a birth defect. View the Fact Sheet
Doğumsal Anomaliler İçin Genetik Tarama
Doğumsal anomaliler, yaklaşık her 20 gebelikten birinde görülür ve hafif yapısal bozukluklardan ciddi genetik hastalıklara veya zihinsel gelişim geriliklerine kadar değişen derecelerde olabilir. View the fact sheet
SART Fertility Experts - Preimplantation Testing for Monogenic Disease (PGT-M)
Learn how Jessica used preimplantation genetic testing for (PGT-M) to prevent transmission of degenerative diseases to her children. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts: Carrier Screening and Fertility Care
Explore how carrier screening supports informed family planning—panel types, timing, risks, and how ASRM-guided care empowers reproductive choices. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Genetics and IVF
Genetics is a significant part of advanced reproductive technology screening. Listen to the Episode
Genetics and Fertility
This video series was created to provide information to patients on genetics and genetic testing in conjunction with infertility and in vitro fertilization treatment. Watch Video
SART FAQ About IVF
Created by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) the following are answers to frequently asked questions concerning in vitro fertilization (IVF). Learn the facts
Kristen Ritchie's Story
I spent seven years navigating infertility, which was tumultuous but also a period of tremendous personal growth in hindsight. Read the story
IVF Treatment Journey
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process in which an egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish to facilitate fertilization.
View the Patient JourneyIn Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
Policy Update from the ASRM Office of Public Affairs: SART Membership Now Mandatory in Tennessee
ASRM-backed Tennessee law makes SART membership mandatory for ART clinic certification, strengthening fertility care standards and oversight. View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Who Regulates IVF? A Conversation with ASRM's Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer Sean Tipton
The SART Fertility Experts podcast explains IVF regulation, SART standards, FDA oversight, and ART reporting requirements shaping fertility care in the U.S. Listen to the Episode
ASRM Responds to Trump Administration’s Announcement Regarding Insurance for Fertility Care
ASRM responds to Trump IVF insurance proposal, urging broader fertility care access and public input on draft coverage rules. View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - IVF Add-Ons Explained: Do They Improve Fertility Success or Just Add Cost?
IVF add-ons explained: costs, risks, and effectiveness. Learn what works, what doesn’t, and how to make informed fertility treatment decisions. Listen to the Episode
For the First Time, More Than 100,000 Babies Born Through IVF in the U.S. in a Single Year
IVF births in the U.S. surpass 100,000 in 2024, highlighting rising demand, improved safety, and advances in fertility care and reproductive medicine. View the Press Release
Just the Facts: Gestational Carrier Care in the United States
Gestational carrier (GC) care is a long-established, medically indicated specialized modality of assisted reproductive technology (ART). View the Advocacy Resource
ASRM President-Elect Dr. Amy Sparks Receives Michigan State University Outstanding Alumni Award
ASRM has proudly announced President-Elect Dr. Amy Sparks, Ph.D., as the winner of the 2026 Outstanding Alumni Award from the Michigan State University College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (CANR). View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts: Complimentary and Integrative Medicine in Reproductive Care and Infertility Treatment
Explore how acupuncture and naturopathic care support IVF, endometriosis, and fertility in this ASRM expert talk on integrative reproductive medicine. Listen to the Episode
A Social Media Campaign Fighting IVF Disinformation and Sharing Gratitude
ASRM's Office of Public Affairs is running an Instagram campaign highlighting positive IVF stories featuring patients and providers. View the Press Release
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Responds to TrumpRx Announcement, Says IVF Access Requires More Than Lower Drug Prices
ASRM has responded to the latest announcement about TrumpRx and its impact on IVF treatments. View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts: Can IVF make people happy?
SART Fertility Experts podcast: Dr. Mark Trolice, Dr. Sousa-Leite, and Dr. Lawson discuss IVF’s psychological effects and meaning beyond conception. Listen to the Episode
ASRM PRIMED scholar Dr. Caiyun Liao Publishes Article on RRM in JAMA
A new Viewpoint warns about the growing politicization and promotion of “restorative reproductive medicine." View the Press Release
ASRM Reacts to First-Ever, Bipartisan, Standalone TRICARE Mandate Introduced in House
ASRM applauds the Bipartisan IVF for Military Families Act advancing TRICARE fertility coverage, backing military families’ access to IVF and related care. View the Press Release
American Society for Reproductive Medicine Responds to Speaker Johnson’s Stripping of Fertility Coverage for America’s Military Personnel
We are profoundly disappointed that TRICARE coverage of fertility care for servicemembers has once again been dropped. View the Press Release
Evaluating the Trump Administration’s Initiative on IVF
Analysis of Trump’s IVF initiative by ASRM with key policy insights, cost implications, and equity concerns in fertility care access. View the advocacy resource
Key Details & Emerging Questions from the White House's IVF Announcement
White House IVF initiative offers deep discounts on fertility drugs and new employer‑benefit pathways, though full coverage and equity gaps remain. View the advocacy resource
SART Fertility Experts - IVF & Religion with Dr. Kelly Lynch and Dr. Bill Petok
Explore how major religions view IVF with Kelly Lynch, MD, and insights from Bill Petok, PhD, on balancing faith, fertility, and family building. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Technology in ART & IVF
Explore the latest IVF technologies, from AI for embryo selection to vitrification, balancing innovation with compassionate patient care in fertility treatment. Listen to the Episode
Just the Facts: “Restorative Reproductive Medicine” and “Ethical IVF” are Misleading Terms That Threaten Access
Terms like “restorative reproductive medicine” and “ethical IVF” mislead and restrict access to proven fertility care like IVF. Evidence must guide policy. View the advocacy resource
SART Fertility Experts - Surgery Before IVF Egg Retrieval and/or Embryo Transfer
Expert insights on surgery before IVF, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer. Learn how procedures like fibroid removal and tubal surgery impact fertility success. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Egg Retrieval: What is it REALLY like?
Learn about egg retrieval, preparation, procedure, recovery, and risks with fertility experts Dr. Susan Nasab and Dr. Dan Williams on the SART Fertility Experts Podcast. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - PGT-A and Mosaicism
Explore PGT-A, a genetic screening test for embryos, discussing its role in IVF, accuracy, candidates, mosaicism, and the future of fertility treatments. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Vanquishing Multiples
Learn how a variety of factors such as geography, race, and the availability of comprehensive infertility mandates affect access to effective infertility treatment. Listen to the Episode
Advocacy in Action
Join the ASRM Advocacy in Action campaign by making a tax-deductible charitable gift Be part of Advocacy in Action
SART Fertility Experts - Global Access to IVF and the Status of Women
Around the world, there are vast differences in the number of IVF cycles performed per capita. Learn why these differences exist. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Implantation Failure
"I can get pregnant, but I can't stay pregnant," is echoed by patients with recurrent pregnancy loss. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Navigating IVF as a Couple
Mary Casey Jacob, PhD is interviewed by Dr. Daniel Grow, and together they explore the emotional and practical support that couples need. Listen to the Episode
Fertility Rights and Responsibilities
Can a fertility program or clinic deny treatment to patient(s) if there is concern about the ability to care for the child(ren)? Yes. Fertility programs can withhold services if there are signs that patients will not be able to care for child(ren). View this Fact Sheet
What is In Vitro Maturation (IVM)?
In vitro maturation (IVM) is when a woman’s eggs are collected and matured outside the body. This is done as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. View the fact sheet
Hydrosalpinx
The fallopian tubes are attached to the uterus (womb) on the left and right sides. View the Fact Sheet
In vitro fertilization (IVF): what are the risks?
IVF is a method of assisted reproduction in which a man’s sperm and a woman’s eggs are combined outside of the body in a laboratory dish. View the fact sheet
Progesterone supplementation during IVF
Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovary. View the fact sheet
Side effects of injectable fertility drugs (gonadotropins)
Gonadotropins are fertility medications given by injection that contain follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) alone or combined with luteinizing hormone (LH). View the fact sheet
What do I need to know about conceiving after surgery on my Fallopian tubes?
Fallopian tubes connect the ovary (where the eggs are stored and grow) to the uterus (womb), where the fertilized egg develops into a baby (fetus). View the fact sheet
Destekli Çatlatma (Assisted Hatching)
Destekli çatlatma, bazen in vitro fertilizasyon (IVF) tedavisi ile birlikte insan erken embriyolarına uygulanan bir laboratuvar prosedürüdür. View the fact sheet
In vitro fertilizasyon (IVF)
IVF, bir erkeğin spermi ve bir kadının yumurtalarının vücut dışında bir laboratuvar kabında birleştirildiği yardımcı üreme yöntemidir. View the fact sheet
İn Vitro Maturasyon (IVM)
İn vitro maturasyon (IVM), yumurtaların vücut dışında toplanıp olgunlaştırılması işlemidi. View the fact sheet
SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Candace discusses her experience with infertility, IVF, multiple pregnancy losses and ultimately a successful delivery with Dr. Julia Woodward.Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Infertility Advocacy and Government Affairs
In today's episode, Dr. Mark Trolice interviews Sean Tipton about the fact that many infertility patients do not have insurance coverage for treatment. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Behind the Scenes in the IVF Lab
Dr. Sangita Jindal, helps patients understand the importance of the IVF lab when choosing an IVF program. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Your Infertility Nurse: Partner in Your Care
Infertility nurse practitioner and health coach Monica Moore explains the essential role of the infertility nurse in the IVF process. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Genetics and IVF
Genetics is a significant part of advanced reproductive technology screening. Listen to the Episode
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)
A procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be done along with in vitro fertilization (IVF) if a sperm cannot penetrate the outer layer of an egg. Read the Fact Sheet
SART Fertility Experts - Fertility and LGBTQ
In this episode, Dr. Daniel Grow interviews Dr. Mark Leondires, the founder of Gay Parents To Be. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - What is an REI?
These experts in infertility lead IVF programs, perform reproductive surgery, and perform research to enhance the field of reproductive medicine. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - What is IVF?
In this episode, we discuss the ins-and-outs of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Listen to the Episode
Start with SART
The very first thing you should do when evaluating a clinic is verify that it is a member of SART. Watch Video
Preparing for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Lifestyle Factors
This SART micro-video discusses lifestyle factors that may affect in vitro fertilization, or IVF, outcomes. Watch Video
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (booklet)
This booklet will help you understand in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other assisted reproductive technology (ART) that have become accepted medical treatments for infertility. View the Booklet
The Difference Between IUI and IVF
It is important to know Intrauterine insemination (IUI) or In vitro fertilization (IVF) can both be successful at helping grow your family. Watch Video
Understanding the SART Clinic Report
During this video we will discuss the SART Clinic Report concepts and demonstrate some of the report features. Watch Video
Infertility: an Overview (booklet)
Infertility is typically defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected intercourse. View the booklet
SART FAQ About IVF
Created by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) the following are answers to frequently asked questions concerning in vitro fertilization (IVF). Learn the facts
Kristen Ritchie's Story
I spent seven years navigating infertility, which was tumultuous but also a period of tremendous personal growth in hindsight. Read the story
It takes more than one
Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to have a baby View the advocacy resource
What support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resource
Oversight of IVF in the US
In the US, medical care is regulated by a complex and comprehensive network of federal and state regulations and professional oversight. View the advocacy resource
Just the Facts: IVF Policy Priorities
ASRM advocates for expanded IVF access, urging policy solutions that prioritize patient care, inclusivity, and medical decision-making free from political interference. View the advocacy resource
Just the Facts: The Safety of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
IVF is a safe, proven medical procedure with extensive research backing. Though risks exist, advancements and strict monitoring ensure most IVF babies are healthy. View the advocacy resource
In Vitro Fertilization Infographics
ASRM has prepared infographics to illustrate the subject of in vitro fertilization (IVF) better. View the infographics
IVF Treatment Journey
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a process in which an egg and sperm are combined in a laboratory dish to facilitate fertilization.
View the Patient JourneyLegal/Ethical Issues
SART Fertility Experts - Who Regulates IVF? A Conversation with ASRM's Chief Advocacy and Policy Officer Sean Tipton
The SART Fertility Experts podcast explains IVF regulation, SART standards, FDA oversight, and ART reporting requirements shaping fertility care in the U.S. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - The Legal Side of IVF: What Patients and Providers Should Know
Explore IVF legal issues including surrogacy, egg donation contracts, and parentage laws. Attorney Amani Hanson explains guidance for intended parents. Listen to the Episode
Fertility Preservation
Fertility preservation is a way to save eggs, sperm, embryos, or reproductive tissue so that a person can have genetically related children in the future. View the Patient Journey
Fertility Rights and Responsibilities
Can a fertility program or clinic deny treatment to patient(s) if there is concern about the ability to care for the child(ren)? Yes. Fertility programs can withhold services if there are signs that patients will not be able to care for child(ren). View this Fact Sheet
Just the Facts: Biological Sex
Biological sex is a complex, multidimensional construct influenced by anatomy, genetics, and hormones. Efforts to oversimplify it ignore scientific reality. View the advocacy resource
Just the Facts: IVF Policy Priorities
ASRM advocates for expanded IVF access, urging policy solutions that prioritize patient care, inclusivity, and medical decision-making free from political interference. View the advocacy resource
Reproductive Rights and You
The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. Protect Your Rights
