Number: RL31147
Title: Federal and State Regulation of Research Involving Human Fetal Tissue
Authors: Jon O. Shimabukuro, American Law Division 
Abstract: This report discusses federal and state regulation of research involving fetal tissue. The NIH Revitalization Act of 1993 and the Health Research Extension Act of 1985 regulate the federal funding of fetal research and fetal tissue transplantation. The National Organ Transplant Act restricts the receipt or transfer of fetal organs. Additional fetal research statutes exist at the state level, but have been subject to challenges in federal courts. In general, the courts have found the state fetal research statutes to be unconstitutionally vague.
Pages: 7
Date: Updated October 9, 2001