What's Happening

International

Italy Passes One of the Most Restrictive Laws Against International Surrogacy

What's going on: Yesterday, Italy made it illegal for citizens to seek surrogacy abroad. The new law builds on the country’s 2004 ban against domestic surrogacy. Couples who seek out the practice abroad face up to two years in prison and fines totaling more than $1 million. The ban also extends to Italian doctors, nurses, or technicians who work at foreign fertility clinics involved in surrogacy. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and her Brothers of Italy party are pushing this measure (which the Catholic Church supports) as part of their broader conservative agenda. Over the past two years, Meloni’s government has taken subtle steps to limit abortion access and gay rights — areas where Italy already trails far behind other European countries.

What it means: In theory, the law applies equally to all couples in Italy. However, critics argue that it unfairly targets same-sex couples in the country, who already don’t have the right to marry and are barred from domestic or international adoption. Surrogacy had been one of the few alternative pathways to becoming a legal parent — although there were still countless complications for LGBTQIA+ people in particular. One Italian organization said 90% of Italians who used surrogates are heterosexual. However, a gay couple could, for example, face more scrutiny going through customs with a child than a heterosexual couple. Some argue that restricting surrogacy could hurt Italy’s future, especially as the country grapples with a sharply-declining population. Meanwhile, the new law is so broad that it may face legal challenges.

Related: It’s Not Just Italy. These Are the Other Countries That Prohibit Surrogacy (Reuters)

Politics

Will America’s Men Please Stand Up? The Presidential Candidates Are Asking

What's going on: When VP Kamala Harris entered the race, many predicted that women would define the election, particularly in the post-Roe era with abortion rights and IVF access at risk. But in the last few weeks, things have taken a curious turn. Both candidates appear to be focusing their energies on…the men. For former President Donald Trump, this isn’t new. He’s long been betting on the bro vote, with efforts like voter drives at college football tailgates and ads on podcasts like BS w/ Jake Paul, which mainly attracts men. Now, Harris is also courting the men and enlisting surrogates like Pete Buttigieg, Barack Obama, and actor Jeff Bridges to help shore up support, especially among Black and Latino men. There are also rumors Harris might appear on Joe Rogan’s podcast.

What it means: Just weeks away from Election Day, these gender dynamics present opportunities and pitfalls for the candidates, as they try to change or make up the minds of voters amid a tight race. Currently, men tend to favor Trump, while women lean toward Harris — though the margins vary by poll. Many young women identify as staunch members of the #KHive, backing Harris’s approach to abortion. But young men aren’t as enthusiastic about Harris, with some feeling disillusioned post-#MeToo. Meanwhile, Democratic strategists are worried about lacking support from Black men, and Trump’s camp fears he’s losing women due to his campaign’s macho vibe and history on reproductive health. Trump recently spoke to an all-women panel in an effort to bridge the gender gap. Still, as in middle school gym class, it might come down to boys vs. girls.

Related: Did VP Kamala Harris Get an Interview or a Debate? Highlights From Her Appearance on Fox News (ABC News) 

US News

Parents Protest Kellogg’s Use of Food Dye — But What Does the Science Say?

What's going on: Kellogg’s is in hot milk after food activist Vani Hari, aka the “Food Babe,” pointed out that the company’s cereals use artificial food dyes and preservatives in its American products, but not in those sold abroad. The internet (and Eva Mendes) reacted, pointing to a few studies suggesting artificial dyes *might* be linked to hyperactivity in children. Earlier this week, dozens of protesters gathered outside of Kellogg’s HQ in Michigan armed with a petition of over 400,000 signatures demanding change. Nearly a decade ago, Kellogg’s promised to stop using the dyes in its foods (like Froot Loops and Apple Jacks) by 2018. Fast forward to 2024: While you won’t find Red Dye No. 40 on the ingredients list in Canada or Europe…it’s still present in the US. Still, Kellogg’s says its foods are safe for consumption and meet the FDA’s standards.

What it means: Don’t freak out if you gave your kids colorful cereal this morning. There is no clear scientific consensus that these additives are harmful to humans, including children. The FDA has reviewed the data and found that color additives are safe in regulated amounts. Some studies have previously found a small but significant boost in hyperactivity among children who consumed artificial dyes. Experts have noted that some of the research has limitations, such as parents self-reporting their children’s behavior, which can introduce bias. However, that’s not stopping some states from taking action. Last year, California became the first state to ban six food dyes in public schools, with companies required to comply by 2027. Other states are looking at similar proposals.

Related: Can You Spot the Difference Between the Grocery Store Aisles in the US and Europe? (NYT Gift Link)