Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17) led a press conference at Montefiore Nyack Hospital to highlight the reintroduction of his IVF Access and Affordability Act, aimed at helping families overcome the financial challenges of fertility treatments. The legislation would provide a federal tax credit of up to $40,000 to assist with the costs of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and other fertility services.
“From personal experience, I know just how vital access to life-giving fertility treatments is for folks looking to start or grow their families in the Hudson Valley,” said Congressman Lawler. “Family is at the heart of our communities, and for far too many couples, the dream of having a child is out of reach because of cost and lack of access. The IVF Access and Affordability Act is a practical, pro-family solution to help change that.”
Montefiore Nyack Hospital CEO Dr. Mark Geller praised Lawler’s continued support for healthcare initiatives, noting the Congressman’s efforts in securing J-1 visas for healthcare workers, advocating for hospital operations, and delaying or mitigating legislation that could negatively affect New York’s healthcare system. “We are very grateful for his support over the years,” Dr. Geller said.
Chanie Sternberg, President & CEO of Refuah Health, emphasized the act’s transformative impact: “I’m standing here representing hundreds of women who continue to struggle to build families. The fact that IVF treatment will now be accessible not just to those who can afford it, but to everyone, is a major milestone. Thank you, Congressman Lawler, for your vision and for standing with women regardless of their ability to pay.”
Rena Fox, an OBGYN nurse and constituent who utilized IVF services, spoke emotionally about the challenges couples face: “The physical and emotional demands can be overwhelming… When you add the financial strain, it can feel impossible. This proposal gives more families the chance to experience the joy of bringing a child into the world. This is not just about medicine or policy — it’s about hope and fairness.”
Dr. Maria Emerson, Director of OBGYN at Montefiore Nyack Hospital, echoed those sentiments: “IVF can be costly, and for many couples, this light of hope is often dimmed by financial barriers. Family building should not be a privilege reserved for only a few. Congressman Lawler’s initiative is a cause worth fighting for.”
Paul Adler, Chairman of the Montefiore Nyack Hospital Foundation, concluded by thanking Lawler for selecting Montefiore Nyack as the backdrop for the announcement. “This is truly about families. It is critically important that this basic right is supported. We stand behind you in this effort to improve quality of life by putting families first.”
