This bill amends and reenacts several sections of Louisiana law regarding in vitro fertilized human embryos, providing a comprehensive framework for their legal status, rights, and the responsibilities of medical facilities and parents involved in the in vitro fertilization process. Key definitions are established, including "human embryo" and "in vitro fertilized human embryo," which clarify the biological and legal status of these entities. The bill stipulates that an in vitro fertilized human embryo is recognized as a juridical person, granting it certain rights and protections, while also outlining the conditions under which it may be deemed nonviable or destroyed.

Additionally, the bill addresses ownership and decision-making authority, stating that in vitro fertilized human embryos are not property and cannot be owned by physicians or facilities. Instead, intended parents are granted control over viable embryos. The legislation also includes provisions for the legal transfer of rights and responsibilities regarding embryos, ensuring that any such transfers are consistent with the law and prohibiting compensation for renouncing parental rights. The bill repeals a previous section of law (R.S. 9:125) and establishes judicial standards for resolving disputes related to in vitro fertilized human embryos, emphasizing the best interests of the embryos involved.

Statutes affected:
SB156 Original:
SB156 Engrossed:
SB156 Reengrossed:
SB156 Enrolled: