I am excited to tell you about a long-awaited step forward in stem cell research. On Monday, President Obama lifted former President Bush's eight-year ban on funding for embryonic stem cell research. Now, scientists applying for federal grants will be able to use the thousands of stem cell lines that have been developed across the country, but were previously unavailable to those receiving federal funds.
This reversal removes a huge barrier to scientific advancement and will allow us to greatly increase our understanding of many terrible diseases. Federal funding for embryonic stem cell research will help open the door to cures and treatments for a host of diseases and conditions, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and diabetes.
I am also a co-sponsor of two bills that go further in promoting stem cell research. The Stem Cell Research Improvement Act (H.R. 872) will expand federal funding for stem cell research and tasks the National Institute of Health with developing a set of federal guidelines for this research. The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (H.R. 873) will codify President Obama's actions and create strong ethical requirements for federally funded embryonic stem cell research.
I am encouraged by President Obama's reversal of the backward-minded Bush policies, and I look forward to working with him and my colleagues in Congress to support our nation's scientists and their research on stem cells.
Sincerely,
Pete
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