Michigan House OKs Surrogate Pact Curbs

LANSING, Mich. — People who arrange surrogate births for a profit would face up to five years in prison and a $50,000 fine under legislation approved Thursday by the Michigan House.

Representatives voted 90 to 10 to outlaw pregnancy-for-pay contracts as being unenforceable and contrary to public policy.

However, the legislation would allow a woman in a surrogate agreement to be compensated for her expenses. She also could accept gifts from the contracting couple, as long as it is clear the gifts do not amount to the buying of a child.