Alabama Senate Bill SB299

Alabama 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 4/3/25
• Refer: 4/3/25

Caption

Stem cell therapy; permitted in certain circumstances, notice and consent requirements provided, exceptions provided, State Board of Medical Examiners required to adopt rules

Impact

If enacted, SB299 could significantly change how stem cell treatments are administered in Alabama. It allows for a broader range of stem cell therapies to be offered to patients, which could lead to increased access to alternative treatment options. However, the stipulation that providers must give detailed disclosures and obtain consent aims to protect patients by ensuring they are fully aware of the risks and lack of FDA endorsement for these therapies, thereby establishing a level of accountability within the medical community.

Summary

SB299, introduced by Senator Melson, seeks to permit licensed health care providers in Alabama to perform stem cell therapy that is not approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The bill outlines specific requirements that providers must follow, including providing informed written consent to patients and posting clear notices about the unapproved nature of the therapy in their offices and advertisements. The legislation reflects a growing interest in innovative therapies despite the regulatory hurdles associated with FDA approval.

Contention

Notably, the bill may spark debate regarding the ethics of permitting unapproved therapies and the potential risks associated with them. Supporters argue that it promotes patient choice and encourages innovation in medical treatments, while critics worry about the dangers of unregulated therapies that could lead to ineffective or harmful medical practices. This could result in a contentious atmosphere among medical professionals and regulatory bodies as they navigate the balance between enabling advanced therapies and ensuring patient safety.