No Time For Complacency, Tough Stem Cell Policy Fights Ahead Says Genetics Policy Institute

Main Category: Stem Cell Research
Article Date: 10 Mar 2009 - 5:00 PDT

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Follows is a statement by Bernard Siegel, Executive Director, Genetics Policy Institute (GPI), on President Obama's decision to lift restrictions on federal funding for human embryonic stem cell research:

"President Obama's action today marks a profound change for the better and a major victory for patients in their quest for cures. At this pivotal moment for the stem cell community, we cannot become complacent. Our most difficult work lies ahead, as we expect research foes to unleash new legal roadblocks and delaying tactics. They will continue to assert unsupported arguments playing upon ignorance and fear."

"In order to provide certainty, the next step is to protect embryonic stem cell research by legislation. Building on the momentum, it's time to repeal the Dickey-Wicker Amendment that serves as a blockade for funding research on work on embryos discarded from in vitro fertilization procedures to derive new cell lines or somatic cell nuclear transfer. All stem cell advocates applaud Congresswoman Diana DeGette who has expressed her intention to seek reversal of this fundamental funding restriction."

"President Obama delivered a striking blow in favor of sound science by lifting federal restrictions for funding ethical research, thereby delivering promised change. Millions of adults and children suffering from chronic and debilitating medical conditions now have hope that this valuable tool will have adequate funding to bring about treatments sooner rather than later."

About GPI

The Genetics Policy Institute "GPI" is a leading promoter and defender of stem cell research and other cutting edge medical research targeting cures. Through GPI's action network, world report, the World Stem Cell Summit, special projects, speaking engagements, world renowned advisory boards, educational resources, teaching initiatives and strategic relationships, GPI serves as the foremost channel of knowledge between world leading stem cell experts, patient advocates and those who make policy for the general public. Please visit http://www.genpol.org/ or call 888-238-1423 for more information.

Genetics Policy Institute

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