Summary: HR810, Embryonic Stem Cell Bill

By The Associated Press

The embryonic stem cell bill Congress is preparing to send President Bush would lift his executive order blocking federal funding for any stem cell research using embryonic stem cell lines developed after Aug. 6, 2001. To qualify for federal funding under the bill, newer embryos could be used in studies only if they:

-Were created for the purposes of fertility treatment.

-Were donated by in vitro fertilization clinics with written, informed consent of those being being treated.

-Were “in excess of the clinical need of the individuals seeking such treatment” and would never be implanted in a woman.

-Would otherwise be discarded, as determined by those seeking treatment.

-Were not donated by patients induced to do so by financial or other incentives.

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Source: “The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005,” H.R. 810.