"The Leader's support for this important legislation significantly increases the prospects that crucial stem cell research will advance and expand," said Senator Collins.
"Stem cell research holds tremendous promise to treat and possibly even cure devastating diseases and conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, diabetes, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and many others. This is a promise that must be explored," Senator Collins added. "As the Senate Majority Leader and a medical doctor, Senator Frist's support for stem cell research is key to helping us move forward and pass this bill," she added.
Senator Collins, who founded and co chairs the Senate Diabetes Caucus, is cosponsor of the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, which would lift the current restrictions so that stem cell lines are eligible for federally funded research regardless of the date on which they were created. Federal funding would continue to be restricted to stem cells derives from embryos originally created for fertility treatments that are in excess of the clinical need and would otherwise be destroyed. The legislation requires the informed consent of the donors and prohibits any financial inducement to donate. It also calls on the National Institutes of Health to develop strict guidelines to ensure that researchers adhere to clear ethical and moral considerations.
A similar version of the bill has already passed the U.S. House of Representatives.
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