Many critics believe the new law unfairly targets LGBTQ families (Representational image: Milano Pride 2015)|Francesca|CC BY-SA 4.0

Italy’s parliament passed a law on Wednesday making it illegal for people to seek surrogacy outside the country. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government claims the legislation is to protect women’s rights. 

The controversial bill, passed in the Senate by 84 votes to 58, expands an existing ban from 2004 to include those seeking surrogacy in countries like the US or Canada.

The law imposed jail sentences of up to two years and fines reaching $1.1 million.

Surrogacy is already illegal in Italy, and many critics believe the new rule unfairly targets LGBTQ families.