Bill updating parenting laws in Massachusetts passes House

BOSTON (WWLP) – Massachusetts is the only New England state without updated parentage laws that protect families that use assisted reproduction.

The Massachusetts House of Representatives unanimously passed the historic Parentage Act Wednesday, legislature that would clarify who qualifies as a parent and how parentage can be established.

This bill is especially important for LGBTQ families in Massachusetts and beyond as it ensures children the same rights, regardless of their parent’s marital status, sexual orientation, or gender identity. This includes children who were born as a result of assisted reproduction including IVF and surrogacy.

State Representative Michael Day spoke in support of the act on the House floor, “We chose love and inclusion over intolerance. Today we continue on that worthy pathway recognizing the love and commitment of parents, and meeting them as they are.”

Lawyer and LGBTQ advocate Polly Crozier helped to draft the Massachusetts Parentage Act, the first update to how state law defines parentage in 40 years, “It’s never been more important to pass this legislation. It’s so important, particularly this year on the 20th anniversary of marriage equality, to do this next step. To protect the children who are born to LGBTQ families.”

Crozier has been involved in the fight for the Parentage Equality Act for seven years and she says it is particularly important to pass now because of the over 500 pieces of anti-LGBTQ legislature passed across the country this year.

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Olivia Ray is a State House reporter who has been a part of the 22News team since April 2024. Follow Olivia on X @OliviaRayMedia and view her bio to see more of her work.

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