Clones, controversy, and criminal law: a comment on the proposal for legislation governing assisted human reproduction

Alta Law Rev. 2001 Sep;39(2):335-45.

Abstract

In the past few years there has been a tremendous amount of regulatory conflict and social controversy in the area of reproductive genetics. The Canadian government has recently released a proposal for legislating in this complex arena. Although the proposed Bill contains many positive elements, it is argued that the use of the criminal law as a regulatory mechanism is neither warranted nor appropriate. The author suggests a more flexible and responsive system of moratoriums and licenses that would enable review and adjustment to the realities of emerging reproductive technologies is a better approach.

MeSH terms

  • Canada
  • Cloning, Organism / legislation & jurisprudence*
  • Criminal Law*
  • Federal Government
  • Government Regulation*
  • Humans
  • Legislation, Medical
  • Reproductive Techniques, Assisted / legislation & jurisprudence*