Barlow Introduces Stem Cell Freedom Act as FDA Delays Persist
GILLETTE, WY — Senator Eric Barlow announced an important measure to advance healthcare opportunities in Wyoming: the Stem Cell Freedom Act. The proposal gives patients access to stem cell therapies using their own cells, citing the slow pace of federal approval processes and the need for states to act when Washington fails to keep up with medical innovation. Barlow has been involved in the policy conversation since 2024, after being approached by a constituent.
The Stem Cell Freedom Act (SF0048) establishes a clear, responsible framework allowing physicians to recommend and perform stem cell therapies that have not yet received full approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The legislation provides strong safeguards, informed consent and ensures medical standards are met.
“For too many patients, the federal system moves far slower than illness or injury,” Barlow said. “When someone is facing a serious medical decision, they shouldn’t be told their only option is to wait for years for Washington to catch up with the science. The legislation reflects Wyoming’s Right To Try approach, which is designed to empower patients, protect physicians who act responsibly, and keep government out of the way.”
Under the bill, patients may access therapies that use their own cells for life-improving treatments. These cells are often harvested from fat tissue and are done in accordance with medical practice standards. The bill expressly prohibits the use of any biological material derived from abortion.
“This is medicine that uses a person’s own cells to help the body heal,” Barlow said. “Wyoming is making it clear: there are no embryonic cells, and no ethical shortcuts.” The measure requires written informed consent, ensuring patients understand the therapy is not FDA-approved, the potential risks and benefits, and the financial responsibility involved. Health insurers would be permitted, but not required, to cover the treatments.
“The bill doesn’t force anyone into treatment, and it doesn’t remove accountability,” Barlow explained. “It simply ensures that when patients and doctors are acting responsibly and transparently, the state doesn’t stand in the way.”
If advanced, the Stem Cell Freedom Act would position Wyoming as a leader in patient-centered medical policy, expanding access to emerging and innovative therapies, while maintaining strong safeguards, ethical clarity, and professional accountability.
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