Missouri Bill Regarding Custody of In Vitro Human Embryos (HB 2558)

HB 2558 would require the court to render a decision in cases involving custody of in vitro human embryos using standards specified in the bill including, but not limited to, recognizing the in vitro human embryo as a human being, considering the best interest of the in vitro human embryo, and upholding agreements between the parties to an action establishing or terminating parental rights as not against public policy.

The bill describes an “in vitro human embryo” as any human embryo at any stage of development which is not located within a female womb. The in vitro human embryo would be considered a person with the same rights, privileges, and immunities available to other persons, citizens, and residents of the state.

In regards to custody conflicts, the bill presumes that it is in the best interest of the in vitro human embryo to place “him or her” in custody of the donor who intends to develop the in vitro human embryo to birth. The court would not be allowed to approve either the termination of the in vitro human embryo or an outcome that leaves the in vitro human embryo indefinitely in an environment in which it does not develop and grow.

STATUS

Similar to SB 1129.

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