In the United States, are there state regulations on cord blood banking?

Within the United States, some states have licensing requirements for cord blood banks. These requirements apply to any cord blood bank that operates within the state, accepts collections from the state, or distributes cord blood units to the state.

If you are a parent who lives in a state with a licensing requirement, then only those cord blood banks that are licensed by your state can legally do business with you. Licenses are required for the states of California, Illinois, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York.

The states California and New York have the strictest licensing standards. These states have inspectors that visit cord blood banks to confirm compliance with the licensing requirements.