Phil Gingrey: “I rise to address the matter of stem cell research, in light of the emergence of viable alternatives that would continue…”

“I rise to address the matter of stem cell research, in light of the emergence of viable alternatives that would continue scientific discovery while respecting human life in all forms and in all stages. I also rise today as a proud cosponsor of H.R. 3144, the Respect For Life Pluripotent Stem Cell Act of 2005. I further would like to thank the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) for not only his steadfast commitment to scientific advancement, but also his steadfast commitment to defending the sanctity of human life. In a debate that has been dominated by an it-is-the-only-way approach, the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Bartlett) has introduced a solution that could achieve the same objective as the Castle-DeGette bill, while preserving human life at its most vulnerable stage. Madam Speaker, I recognize that people of goodwill can disagree on the matter of when human life begins. However, no one can dispute that an embryo is at least potential life; and many people, my physician self included, believe an embryo to be a living human being, fully vested with the rights that we all enjoy. Therefore, even if someone only believes an embryo to be a potential life, they should support the Bartlett bill because it accomplishes, Madam Speaker, the same ends as the Castle-DeGette bill, while giving the benefit of doubt and erring on the side of human life.…”