Statement: Ellison Votes To Expand Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Press Release

Statement: Ellison Votes To Expand Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Congressman Keith Ellison voted today to give hope to millions of Americans who live with diseases that affect the central nervous system by supporting the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. The bill, S 5, which passed the House of Representatives by a margin of 247-176, would greatly expand scientists' access to embryonic stem cell lines.

"This legislation will give millions of Americans who suffer from Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease, Multiple Sclerosis and other debilitating diseases, a much deserved second chance," Representative Ellison stated. "Stem cell research could well provide Americans with a path to a cure to so many of these incapacitating diseases," Ellison said.

This bill will expand federal funding for embryonic stem cell research previously restricted by President Bush since 2001. The bill further authorizes federal research funding for stem cell lines generated from embryos that would be discarded by fertility clinics. This bill also creates an ethical framework that must be followed when conducting research.

More than 500 organizations, including the American Medical Association, AARP, Association of American Medical Colleges, and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, as well as many faith-based groups support the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act.

"This is a victory for science over ideology; for hope where little existed before," Ellison concluded.

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