Chicago Tribune Examines Debate In Senate Over Embryonic Stem Cell Research Bill

Main Category: Stem Cell Research
Article Date: 07 Mar 2006 - 3:00 PDT

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The Chicago Tribune on Friday examined recent debate in the Senate over a measure (HR 810/S 471) that would expand federal funding of human embryonic stem cell research (Chayes, Chicago Tribune, 3/3). HR 810 -- which is called the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2005 and was approved by the House last year -- would expand federal funding for human embryonic stem cell research and allow funding for research using stem cells derived from embryos originally created for fertility treatments and willingly donated by patients (Kaiser Daily Women's Health Policy Report, 12/16/05). According to the Tribune, S 471, which is sponsored by Sen. Arlen Specter (R-Pa.), "mirrors the House version" approved last year. Some supporters of the bill said that if the Senate passes Specter's legislation, the measure could avoid negotiations in House-Senate conference committee -- which could further delay the measure. Some Republicans are concerned that a delay in the bill's passage could hurt the GOP's image, especially for the elections in November, the Tribune reports. However, opponents of the bill, including Sens. Sam Brownback (R-Kan.) and Tom Coburn (R-Okla.), say the bill should be amended or alternatives should be explored because embryonic stem cell research involves destroying human embryos. While supporters say they are hoping Congress approves the bill this spring, opposition has made the outcome unclear, the Tribune reports (Chicago Tribune, 3/3). President Bush has said he will veto the measure if it is passed (Kaiser Daily Women's Health Policy Report, 12/16/05).

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