Momentum to Expand Stem Cell Research Continues to Build: 200 Cosponsors, Over 200 Groups back Castle-DeGette

Momentum to Expand Stem Cell Research Continues to Build: 200 Cosponsors, Over 200 Groups back Castle-DeGette

WASHINGTON, DC -U.S. Representatives Mike Castle (R-DE) and Diana DeGette (D-CO) announced that they have 200 co-sponsors and the support of over 200 patient, scientist and medical research groups for their proposal to expand federal support for stem cell research, (H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act).

"This is the latest sign that momentum in Congress and across the nation continues to build for the federal government to expand its involvement in stem cell research, including imposing strict ethical controls," said Rep. DeGette. "I began working on this issue even before President Bush created the current stem cell policy in 2001. We are now close to reaching the culmination of four hard years of work and education. Over this period, the more Members learned about stem cells, the more they were willing to support this promising area of science. The fact that the plan Rep. Castle and I authored has 200 bipartisan co-sponsors and the backing of over 200 groups shows that the truth is on our side - and that all of our outreach efforts are paying dividends."

"The more people learn about embryonic stem cell research, the more they realize the potential to fight disease and improve the lives of the 110 millions of Americans who are suffering, and therefore the more supportive they become. That is why the momentum continues to grow every day -- with each new cosponsor or group endorsement -- we are making great progress to help all families touched by diseases like cancer, diabetes, Parkinson's, ALS and Alzheimers. If I had not been part of this movement, I would never believe how far we have come and how supportive the American public is. This truly is a heart and conscience issue and one I am pleased we will be able to debate openly on the floor of the House of Representatives," said Rep. Castle.

The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act was introduced earlier this year to expand the current federal policy. It has 200 cosponsors, including 24 Republicans. Last year, Reps. Castle and DeGette sponsored H.R. 4682 the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act in the 108th Congress and authored the bipartisan letter urging President Bush to expand his stem cell policy, garnering 206 signatures in the House and 58 signatures in the U.S. Senate.

For more information, visit: http://www.house.gov/castle/Castle%20DeGette%20ESCR.html.

For the full co-sponsor list, visit: http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/bdquery/z?d109:HR00810:@@@P.

http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/co01_degette/050516.html