Larsen Votes to Expand Life-Saving Stem Cell Research; Urges President Bush to Sign Bill

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Larsen Votes to Expand Life-Saving Stem Cell Research; Urges President Bush to Sign Bill

U.S. Representative Rick Larsen (WA-02) voted today in favor of legislation to advance life-saving research by greatly expanding the number of embryonic stem cell lines available for use in federally-funded studies. The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007 (S. 5) which passed the House today by a vote of 247 to 176, was approved by the Senate last month with broad, bipartisan support.

"This bill is about saving lives," said Larsen. "Stem cell research has already led to groundbreaking scientific advancements and holds tremendous promise for millions suffering from Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, diabetes, and other serious diseases. The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act is critical to continuing our progress. We cannot handcuff scientists and close the door to hope for millions of Americans waiting for a cure. I urge the President to sign this live-saving bill."

The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act is identical to legislation passed by the House in January except that today's bill includes a provision authorizing additional research on stem cells not derived from human embryos. The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act only authorizes funding for stem cell lines generated from embryos that would otherwise be discarded by fertility clinics.

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