§ 20-111. Posthumous use of sperm or egg

MD Health-Gen Code § 20-111 (2019) (N/A)
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(a)    (1)    This section applies to the use of sperm or eggs from a donor known to the individual who intends to become a parent through the use of the sperm or eggs.

(2)    This section does not apply to the use of sperm or eggs donated to a tissue bank or fertility clinic by a donor who intended to remain anonymous either indefinitely or until a child that results from the use of the sperm or eggs becomes an adult.

(b)    A person may not use sperm or eggs from a known donor after the donor’s death for the purpose of assisted reproduction, if:

(1)    The person knows that the known donor died and did not give consent for the posthumous use of the sperm or eggs; or

(2)    The donor or the individual who intends to become a parent through the use of the sperm or eggs receives any remuneration for the donation or use of the sperm or eggs.

(c)    A donor’s consent to the posthumous use of the donor’s sperm or eggs given on or after October 1, 2012 is not valid unless it is:

(1)    In writing; and

(2)    Signed by the donor or by some other person for the donor, in the presence of the donor, and at the express direction of the donor.

(d)    A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and on conviction is subject to:

(1)    For a first offense, a fine not exceeding $1,000; and

(2)    For a second or subsequent offense, a fine not exceeding $5,000.