Colorado will outlaw anonymous sperm and egg donors in the near future. Donors will have to provide personal information including a detailed medical history. Information will have to be updated every 3 years.
Children of donors will have the legal right to learn the identity of their donor parent at age 18. It is already possible in some cases to find a donor parent by means of genetic testing companies that have test subjects all over the country.
Colorado’s new law prohibits the use of sperm and egg donors from other states that allow donors to remain anonymous. It is unclear if this violates interstate commerce laws.
It is understandable that children born of a donor sperm or egg might want to know about the donor and may want to reach out to them. In Colorado, potential donors will have to decide if they are willing to donate without anonymity.
If you live in a different state, how would you advise your legislators about this topic?
Peter M. Hartmann, MD
Family Medicine & Psychiatry
