Janene Oleaga, Esq., founder of Oleaga Law LLC, appeared on the ASRM Today podcast, produced by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, to discuss the legal and political landscape shaping access to reproductive care for LGBTQ+ patients. The episode, part of a season-long focus on LGBTQ+ issues in reproductive medicine, was released ahead of Pride Month and features host Jeffrey Hayes and co-host Dr. Lowell Ku, alongside Oleaga and Jennifer Maas.
The conversation centered on how recent legislative shifts are influencing access to fertility treatment, family building, abortion services, and gender-affirming reproductive care. The panel examined the complexities of laws that families must navigate, the impact of ideology on medical decision-making, and the role of advocacy in protecting reproductive autonomy. Oleaga highlighted her work on significant legal cases, including the New York Supreme Court's Matter of Baby DKN decision, which recognized three legal parents for a child born through assisted reproduction. She also testified before the Maine Legislature in support of LD 1906, which strengthened legal protections for LGBTQ+ parents through assisted reproduction, and LD 1539, which expanded insurance coverage for fertility treatment in Maine.
Oleaga founded Oleaga Law LLC to help individuals and couples build families through assisted reproduction and adoption. Licensed in New York, Maine, New Hampshire, and Connecticut, she serves on the boards of NYAAFF, New England Fertility Society, AllPaths, and the BIVF Foundation, and is a member of ASRM's Legal Professionals Group. The full episode is available on all podcast streaming platforms.
This discussion underscores the ongoing challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals seeking reproductive care, as well as the critical role of legal advocacy in advancing family equality. With shifting political climates, the need for informed legal guidance and policy reform remains paramount. The episode provides insights into how legal professionals and advocates are working to ensure equitable access to fertility care and family building options for all.
