Bill > SF0048

This bill, known as the Stem Cell Freedom Act, allows physicians to recommend and perform certain stem cell therapies on patients, even if those therapies haven't been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), provided specific conditions are met. These conditions include having approval from an institutional review board (IRB), which is a group that oversees research and clinical trials, or using an investigational drug, biological product, or device that has passed initial testing. The stem cells used must be manufactured according to "current good manufacturing practices," which are quality and safety standards, and a physician-patient relationship must exist. Physicians performing these therapies must be registered with the Wyoming State Board of Medicine, and patients must provide written informed consent detailing the therapy's nature, its unapproved status by the FDA, potential benefits and risks, and financial responsibility. The bill also states that health insurance companies may, but are not required to, cover the costs of these therapies. Importantly, the Wyoming State Board of Medicine is prohibited from taking disciplinary action against a physician's license solely for recommending or performing stem cell therapy if it aligns with medical standards of care and the physician is registered. Furthermore, state officials cannot prevent patients from accessing stem cell therapy, and no new legal claims can be created against individuals properly performing these therapies under the act. The bill also mandates the State Board of Medicine to maintain a public registry of qualified physicians offering stem cell therapy.

Health and Social Services

https://www.wyoleg.gov/Legislation/2026/SF0048