Illinois: State Embryonic & Fetal Research Laws as of January, 2008
Illinois: State Embryonic & Fetal Research Laws as of January, 2008
Permits research on fetus/embryo?
Yes, permits research on embryonic stem cells, embryonic germ cells and adult stem cells from any source
Restricts research on aborted fetus/embryo?
Yes, prohibits on aborted living/nonliving fetus
Consent provision to conduct research on fetus/embryo
Yes, written consent to perform research on cells or tissues from a dead fetus other than from an abortion
Restricts research on fetus or embryo resulting from sources ther than abortion
Yes, prohibits research on fetus/fertilized embryo; prohibits funding under E.O. 6 (2005) of research on fetuses from induced abortions and the creation of embryos through the combination of gametes solely for the purpose of research
Restrictions of purchase sale of human tissue for research
Yes, prohibits sale of fetus/fetal tissue; prohibits purchase or sale of embryonic or fetal cadaveric tissue for research but permits reimbursement for removal, storage, and transportation for research.
Notes:
Data are as of January 26, 2008.
There are four primary sources for embryonic stem cells: existing stem cell lines, aborted or miscarried embryos, unused in vitro fertilized embryos, and cloned embryos. Current federal policy limits federally funded research to research conducted on embryonic stem cell lines created before August 2001. Federal funding of research involving cloning for the purpose of reproduction or research is prohibited. However, there is no federal law banning human cloning altogether. The Food and Drug Administration has claimed authority over the regulation of human cloning technology as an investigational new drug (IND) and stated that at this time, they would not approve any projects involving human cloning for safety reasons, but Congress has not passed legislation confirming the FDA''s authority to prohibit cloning.
State laws may restrict the use of embryonic stem cells from some or all sources or specifically permit certain activities. State laws on the issue vary widely. States that specifically permit embryonic stem cell research have established guidelines for scientists such as consent requirements and approval and review processes for projects.
