HOUSE BILL NO. 2857 Offered January 10, 2007 Prefiled January 10, 2007 A BILL to amend the Code of Virginia by adding in Title 32.1 a chapter numbered 5.3, consisting of a section numbered 32.1-162.23, relating to stem cell research. ----------
Patrons-- Moran, Amundson, BaCote, Brink, Dance, Ebbin, Howell, A.T., McClellan, Plum, Sickles, Ward and Watts
---------- Committee Referral Pending ----------

Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1.  That the Code of Virginia is amended by adding in Title 32.1 a chapter numbered 5.3, consisting of a section numbered 32.1-162.23, as follows:

                                                            CHAPTER 5.3.

                                                STEM CELL RESEARCH.

§32.1-162.23 Stem cell research; authorization and requirements.

A. Research involving the derivation and use of human embryonic stem cells, human embryonic germ cells, and human adult stem cells from any source, shall be authorized in the Commonwealth subject to the approval of the Stem Cell Research Oversight Committee after evaluation of the ethical and medical implications of the research and the requirements of this section.

B. As recommended by the National Academies, each institution conducting stem cell research shall utilize a Stem Cell Research Oversight Committee specifically for the purpose of evaluating and approving such proposals and projects.

C. Research utilizing human embryonic stem cells in accordance with this section (regardless of the date on which the stem cells were derived from a human embryo) shall be eligible for use in any research conducted or supported by the Commonwealth, or any institution or subdivision thereof, if the cells meet each of the following requirements:

1. The stem cells were derived from human embryos that have been donated from in vitro fertilization clinics, were created for the purposes of fertility treatment, and were in excess of the clinical need of the individuals seeking such treatment;

2. Prior to the consideration of embryo donation and through consultation with the individuals seeking fertility treatment, it was determined that the embryos would never be implanted in a woman and would otherwise be discarded;

3. The individuals seeking fertility treatment donated the embryos with written informed consent and without receiving any financial or other inducements to make the donation.