Bill > S00539

This bill amends the New York Public Health Law to clarify the legal status of fertilized human ova and embryos existing outside of a human uterus. Specifically, the legislation stipulates that such embryos or ova shall not be considered an unborn child, minor child, natural person, or any other term implying human personhood under state law. The bill provides a technical definition of "embryo" as a cell or group of cells with a complete set of chromosomes that has the potential to develop into a live-born human being if transferred to a person's body under conditions where gestation could reasonably be expected. This means that embryos created through in vitro fertilization (IVF) or other reproductive technologies would not be granted legal personhood rights in New York, which could have implications for medical research, fertility treatments, and legal interpretations involving such embryos. The act is designed to take effect immediately upon passage.

Health and Social Services

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/S539