Mexico legislator proposes prison for surrogacy exploitation

Mexican Deputy Reginaldo Sandoval Flores of the Labor Party (PT) has proposed a legislative initiative to criminalize reproductive exploitation through surrogacy. The proposal seeks to amend the General Law to Prevent, Punish, and Eradicate Crimes in Matters of Human Trafficking and the Protection and Assistance of Victims.

The initiative proposes prison sentences ranging from 10 to 20 years for those committing reproductive exploitation, whether for profit or not, and for those who facilitate, promote, finance, or intermediate such agreements within or outside national territory. Penalties would increase to 15–25 years if the exploitation involves minors, individuals unable to understand the act, or if it is achieved through deception, coercion, or the exploitation of economic or social vulnerability.

Stricter penalties of 15 to 25 years are also proposed for involvement by organized crime groups or cases where the pregnant woman's freedom of movement is restricted. Additionally, medical professionals who knowingly provide assisted reproduction services for such agreements could face 5 to 15 years in prison. If public servants are involved, the proposal includes dismissal and disqualification from holding public office.