Donor Insemination Laws: State by State
What a Woman Must KNow
When an unmarried woman considers becoming pregnant through donor insemination – either through a friend (a “known donor”) or sperm bank (an “unknown donor”) – it is vitally important that she first understand the laws governing donor insemination in her state. These laws, after all, may determine the shape of whatever family she forms, as some states allow a sperm donor to assert parental rights and others do not. Some states also have laws that require that donor insemination be performed by a physician.
The Donor’s Responsibility
In all 50 states, men who provide sperm as an unknown donor assume no legal responsibility for any resulting children born. In some states, however, if a man is known to the woman or couple to whom he provides sperm, he may be required to assume the legal responsibilities of a parent.
In California, Ohio and Wisconsin, a known donor releases himself from legal responsibility if the procedure is performed with a physician's involvement. In Colorado and New York, a known donor may be able to assert parental rights; however it is unclear whether a court would impose any responsibilities on a known donor in these two states. In Pennsylvania and Utah, the law is unclear and a known donor may be assigned some parental responsibility. In the remaining states, there are no laws or cases that assign or allow a donor to assert parental responsibilities.
Browse our listings of State Donor Insemination Laws.
It is also strongly recommended that you consult with a local attorney who specializes in GLBT-related family law.