Yesterday, Dems in both chambers of Congress intro'd legislation that would block limits on in vitro fertilization. Tens of thousands of parents rely on fertility treatments like IVF. Together, they're responsible for 2% of all US births — more than 80,000 babies each year. But when SCOTUS overturned Roe, some states passed bills defining life at conception. That could put IVF — which relies on using fertilized embryos — in gray territory. Some states (like Arkansas and Oklahoma) explicitly say 'IVF isn't an issue.' On the flip side, Virginia is considering a bill that doesn't include an IVF carveout.
So what would this bill do?
Ban states from restricting access to reproductive treatments. It would also protect health care workers who administer the treatments. And would direct the Justice Department to go after states trying to limit IVF. The Dems say they're looking for Republican support to help pass it. And hope former VP Mike Pence — who said those treatments "deserve the protection of the law" — can rally members of his party to get on board. The father of three revealed last month that he and his wife had relied on IVF, saying the treatment gave the couple "great comfort."
theSkimm
Some say Democrats are fear-mongering with bills like this — and that birth control and fertility treatments aren't at risk. Others point to states that may have a microscope on IVF. Now, Dems are scrambling to take some action on reproductive healthcare…before they lose the House next month.
The White House. Yesterday, the Biden admin brought back its free, at-home, rapid COVID test program. The move — part of the admin's "COVID-19 Winter Preparedness Plan" — means that all US households can order four at-home tests from here that will be mailed to them for free. The tests, which start shipping next week, come as the country's dealing with what health experts are calling a "tripledemic" of COVID, the flu, and RSV. 13 million people have been infected with the flu this season alone, and more than 79% of hospital beds nationwide are now occupied. So the White House's answer: add 'COVID tests' to everyone's wish lists. Happy holidays and stay safe.
PS: Here's how to survive work and a sick kid during a 'tripledemic.'
Where people are suspecting fowl play...
Twitter. Yesterday, Elon Musk's social media company blocked half a dozen reporters for apparently violating Twitter's rules. The accounts included journalists who worked for CNN, The New York Times, and Washington Post. Musk says that the accounts were blocked for doxxing (aka sharing private information) when they covered the story of a now-deleted account that followed Musk's private jet location. But the journalists say they don't understand the suspension calling it "questionable and unfortunate." All of this comes as some of the journalists in question were critical of Musk in recent weeks — raising concerns that this is personal. And may go counter to Musk's previous claims that he hopes to make Twitter a "healthy, functioning free speech" where even his "worst critics" have a place.
What's on the DL…
US IPOs. According to a new report, initial public offerings had their worst year in over three decades. And says about 88% fewer companies decided to go public to raise cash. The news comes as VCs are also going through it, with venture capital deals reportedly on track for the biggest decline in more than two decades. The reason for both trends? Inflation and interest rate hikes have investors looking for safer options.
Many of us are rethinking our relationships with work. And what we expect from our employers. So we teamed up with Google to Skimm some best-in-class benefits.
One particularly hot topic these days? Hybrid workweeks. Aka WFH a few days a week, and working from office the others. A recent Gallup poll found 71% of workers have experienced an improvement in work-life balance since their company went hybrid. 58% said they don't feel as burnt out. Beyond that: More than half say they're more productive. Google gets it. And they're all about flexibility. That's why most Googlers can WFH at least two days a week. And so many of their roles are remote work-eligible. Learn more about Google's flexible benefits.
Coming Soon: A Simpler Way to Take Care of Yourself
Putting your health first shouldn't be hard. That's where we come in. Meet our *new* Skimm Well newsletter. Every week, we'll share:
Science-backed insights on the latest health news and research
Actionable tips from experts on real health questions you've asked
Product, book, and podcast recs that'll deepen your health know-how
And sooo much more
Cheers to living smarter and healthier in 2023. Sign up for Skimm Well's newsletter here.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Winter workout clothes and accessories that'll keep you warm. To set you up for success, we rounded up apparel you can rely on to make your winter fitness routine doable and enjoyable.
2. Stylish gifts for your trendiest friend. Closet staples that are sure to delight even the trendiest, most tapped-in fashionista on your list.
3. New Year's Eve party outfits that are actually comfortable. No pinching, pulling, or itching here. We even threw in some shoes.
4. The best sales to shop this week. Including a major discount on bidets at Tushy (ahem, 30% off) and more.
Psst...looking for more discounts on brands Skimm'rs love? Check out all of our exclusive promo codes here.
On Our Radar
The countdown to the holidays. Get 'em something that's guaranteed to arrive in time with these subscription gifts. (Personally? We're eyeing the virtual wine tastings.)
Answer: C. Today's subject line (Been living this life so patient) is from The Weeknd's latest song, "Nothing is Lost (You Give Me Strength)." Harry and Meghan may give each other strength...but they're also giving the public bombshells. This week, they're back on Netflix with Volume 2 of their docuseries — after Volume 1 became the service's biggest documentary debut yet. Oh, and RAYE and 070 Shake just got onto the Billboard Hot 100 chart for the first time with "Escapism." Not exactly finding themselves in a sh*t position. If you care to listen.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Fur-ever kind of pal…Daisy G (NY). She's volunteering with Social Tees Animal Rescue to find homes for abandoned dogs and cats. Paw-dorable.
(Some) Birthdays…Claire Oetinger (NY), Jill King (PA), theSkimm's Sarah Hong (NY), Ian Davie (UK), Lisa Gillin (PA), Sam Lane (AUS), Ashley Loquercio (IL), Karin Cole (WA), Bernadine Bednarz (CA), Karen Klavans (FL), Valerie Sachs (NY), Hillary Foss (CA), Natalie Lenz (WI), Julie Lyons (FL), Christine Hsiao (IL), Natalie Snow (FL), Allison Schmitt (TX), Bea Tretbar (MO)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm'd by: Rashaan Ayesh, Melanie De Lima, Kate Gilhool, Julie Shain, and Mariza Smajlaj
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Skimm More
The weather outside is frightful, but our hot takes are still fire. From TikTok situationships to Quebec's allegiance to the Royal Family, recent stories don't disappoint. This week on "Skimm This," we unpack some of the latest pop culture moments and social trends on theSkimm's radar. Like your group chat, but live. Listen now.
