Press Release

Similar to the DeGette-Castle Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (H.R. 3), which Congressman Cummings supported in January, the Senate version passed today increases the number of embryonic stem cell lines eligible for federally-funded research.  Unlike the House bill, S.5 authorizes alternative stem cell research or ways to obtain stem cells that have the same properties as embryonic stem cells, but do not involve destroying embryos.

"Recently, debates involving the right to die when one is faced with a terminal illness have resurfaced.  However, the expansion of stem cell research will open the door to life for patients with these hopeless conditions," Congressman Cummings said. 

According to scientists, embryonic stem cells can become virtually any human tissue and renew and replicate themselves indefinitely, possibly offering a cure for conditions such as Alzheimer's and Multiple Sclerosis. This bill would expand the federal funding of embryonic stem cell research by lifting the restrictions on the embryonic stem cell lines that can be used for federally-funded research - restrictions that were imposed by President Bush in 2001.   Most of the stem cell lines authorized for federally-funded research under the President's policy are now no longer useful for research.  However, the bill only authorizes federal research funds for stem cell lines generated from embryos that would otherwise be discarded by fertility clinics.  The bill also creates an ethical framework that must be followed in conducting this research under the guidance of the National Institutes of Health.

"I approach stem cell research with deep respect for the significant ethical concerns that have been raised, and I strongly believe we must never lose our diligent focus on ensuring that these research techniques are not abused for immoral ends," Congressman Cummings said. "S. 5 will guarantee the highest ethical standards will be applied to stem cell research."

During the 109th Congress, the House and Senate passed the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005, H.R. 810.  Unfortunately, the bill was vetoed by President Bush.

"By approving this legislation, we are sending President Bush a bill that shows our nation is committed to using technology responsibly and saving the lives of our loved ones," Congressman Cummings said.