HB1399 Summary

• Creates the "Prohibition of Public Funding of Human Cloning and Destructive Embryo Research Act" establishing that public funding of human cloning and destructive embryo research, including embryonic stem cell research, is against Arkansas public policy.

• Prohibits use of public funds to finance human cloning or destructive embryo research, buy or transfer human embryos intended for destructive research, or buy or transfer gametes intended to produce embryos for destructive research.

• Prohibits state entities, educational institutions, and political subdivisions from using public funds, facilities, or employees to destroy human embryos for research purposes or participate in human cloning.

• Establishes exceptions allowing funding for in vitro fertilization, fertility drugs, nuclear transfer techniques that do not produce human embryos, and diagnostic procedures benefiting the embryo being tested.

• Imposes penalties including Class A misdemeanor charges, $1,000 civil penalties, and potential denial or revocation of professional licenses for knowing violations; allows taxpayers standing to sue for enforcement.