Saskatchewan Bill 205 – Changes for Surrogates and Intended Parents

Bill 205 passed royal assent on March 16^th. Although the Act is not yet in force, the changes led to some much-needed updates to Saskatchewan’s Children’s Law Act and fertility law.

Major changes include (1) the intended parents genetic connection is no longer a requirement and (2) creating an administrative option, similar to the one in Ontario. Under the administrative option, the surrogate signs a consent granting the intended parents the legal status of parents. The surrogate must sign the consent no sooner than 3 days of the baby being born.

The administrative regime is almost identical in Ontario, except the waiting period is seven days in Ontario and three days in Saskatchewan.

Lawyers at BOYNECLARKE LLP can help you navigate the legal issues in fertility law. If you are seeking legal advice, please call (902) 469-9500 to schedule your consultation with Terrance G. Sheppard.