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For three weeks, state Rep. Joseph Lopinto worked to quell opposition to setting up a legal framework in Louisiana for gestational surrogacy.

On Monday night, while other legislators made the rounds at session parties, Lopinto gathered the opponents in his State Capitol office and watched the tide finally turn.

“We’ve found common territory that we can agree on,” said Gene Mills, president of Louisiana Family Forum, to the House Committee on Civil Law and Procedure on Tuesday.

Soon, House Bill 187 was on its way to the House floor after the committee voiced no objection to its advancement.

The compromise includes criminalizing financial compensation other than medical, legal and travel expenses for the surrogacy.

Money for lost wages would be allowed if the surrogate is put on bed rest during the pregnancy.

Any other financial exchange between the surrogate and prospective parents would be considered the sale of a child, which is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and a maximum $10,000 fine.

Lopinto, R-Metairie, didn’t convince everyone to embrace the bill. The state’s Catholic bishops continue to...