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| FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 17, 2009 |
Contact: Joy Fox
(401) 732-9400 |
Federal Guidelines for Stem Cell Funding Released |
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| (Warwick, R.I.) - Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) today applauded the National Institutes of Health for proposing draft guidelines that would govern federal funding of embryonic stem cell research. In early March, President Obama signed an Executive Order lifting the Bush Administration’s restrictive policy on embryonic stem cell funding. “With its quick issuance of these guidelines, NIH is sending a clear signal around the world that our nation supports research based on science, not politics,” said Langevin. “I believe the proposed rules will help ensure that research is conducted within the strictest ethical bounds, while dramatically expanding the number of stem cell lines available for federally-funded research. As these guidelines are reviewed, I will continue to work with my colleagues in Congress to give President Obama’s Executive Order the force of law. We are ready to tackle the next set of challenges ahead to find cures to some of life’s most chronic and challenging diseases and conditions.” Among the guidelines released by the NIH: - Federal funds may only be used for research on stem cells derived from embryos created for reproductive purposes through the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process - No federal funds will be allowed for research on stem cells derived from certain other sources, including embryos specifically created for research. - IVF clinics must obtain written informed consent from potential donors and documentation is required to verify that donation was completely voluntary and that no inducements were provided - Researchers must ensure that cells were derived according to the NIH guidelines There will be a 30-day public comment period for the draft guidelines. The final rules are expected to be published on or around July 7, which is 120 days from when the Executive Order was signed. The guidelines are currently available on the NIH website at http://nih.gov/. |
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