ExecutiveOrdersEO
Memo 13505MemorandumObama · D

Presidential Memorandum 13505

Guidelines for Human Stem Cell Research

This memorandum directs all executive departments and agencies that conduct or fund stem cell research to adopt the NIH Guidelines for Human Stem Cell Research issued July 7, 2009. It requires these agencies to submit proposed revisions to their own stem cell research policies to OMB within 90 days for review.

Federal Register Open PDF 74 FR 38885

Impact dates

  1. Agency heads submit proposed additions or revisions to stem cell research guidance, policies, or procedures to OMB Director

Key directives

  • Heads of executive departments and agencies to adopt NIH Guidelines for Human Stem Cell Research to fullest extent practicable
  • Agency heads to submit proposed additions or revisions to stem cell research guidance to OMB Director within 90 days
  • OMB Director to review proposals in coordination with NIH Director

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • NIH Guidelines already effective July 7, 2009 apply to NIH-funded research

Near term (90d)

  • Agency heads must submit proposed policy revisions to OMB Director

Long term

  • Uniform federal policy on stem cell research across executive branch

Risks & tensions

  • 'To the fullest extent practicable' and 'consistent with legal authorities' creates implementation variance across agencies
  • Limitation clause that memorandum creates no enforceable rights may weaken compliance incentives
Presidential Memorandum 13505: Guidelines for Human Stem Cell Research · Executive Orders