A new bill proposed by the liberal parties VVD and D66 in the Netherlands aims to expand embryo screening options for parents, allowing them to test for serious inherited illnesses, even if there is no risk the child will become ill. Currently, embryo testing is restricted to cases with a high probability of the child developing a severe disease.

The proposal intends to enable individuals with family histories of genetic conditions to select embryos that are not carriers, thus preventing the transmission of these illnesses. D66 MP Jan Paternotte emphasized the goal of providing carriers of hereditary diseases with the choice to avoid passing them on to their offspring.

The procedure, known as pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT) or embryo selection, is performed in conjunction with IVF. It involves testing embryos created outside the body and implanting only those free of the specific condition.

VVD MP Harry Bevers told RTL Nieuws that approximately 380 people in the Netherlands undergo embryo screening annually. He stressed the significance of assisting even a small number of additional families affected by these severe conditions.

The draft legislation limits screening to a select group of serious inherited diseases, including severe muscle disorders and blood clotting problems. The Dutch parliament is not expected to debate or vote on the bill until after the general election on October 29.