The bill CS/CS/HB 1617 establishes new regulations for stem cell therapy in Florida, creating sections 458.3245 and 459.0127 of the Florida Statutes. It permits allopathic and osteopathic physicians to perform FDA-unapproved stem cell therapies specifically in orthopedics, wound care, or pain management, provided they adhere to strict ethical standards. The legislation emphasizes the ethical sourcing of stem cells, prohibiting the use of cells derived from aborted fetuses and requiring that stem cells be obtained from accredited facilities that comply with rigorous manufacturing practices. Physicians are also mandated to provide clear advertisements regarding the unapproved status of these therapies and to obtain informed consent from patients, detailing the treatment's nature and potential risks.

Furthermore, the bill defines key terms related to stem cell therapy, such as "minimally manipulated," "physician," and "stem cell therapy," while outlining the types of products and cells included in these definitions. It specifies that the consent form must encourage patients to consult with their primary care providers and includes provisions for disciplinary actions against physicians who violate these regulations. The Board of Medicine and the Board of Osteopathic Medicine are tasked with adopting rules to implement the new standards. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.