Daniel Akaka: “of the three bills being discussed, only one, H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Act, contains language which would lead…”

“of the three bills being discussed, only one, H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Act, contains language which would lead to substantive expansion of stem cell research. The legislation would authorize Federal funding for research on stem cells derived from donated embryos. These embryos will likely be destroyed if they are not donated for research. The bill also would institute strong ethical guidelines for this research. We must pass this legislation so that researchers are able to move forward on ethical, Federally funded research projects that develop better treatments for those suffering from diseases. Human embryonic stem cells have such great potential because they have the unique ability to develop into almost any type of cell or tissue in the body. Stem cell research holds great promise to develop possible cures or improved treatments for a wide range of diseases, such as diabetes, cancer, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's, autism, heart disease, spinal cord injuries, and many other afflictions. We cannot afford to limit research that could help improve the lives of so many who currently suffer from diseases which we have limited ability to prevent, treat, or cure. If we fail to enact H.R. 810, our researchers are likely to fall further behind the work being done in other countries. Australia, Canada, Finland, France, Japan, Singapore, Sweden, and the United Kingdom have provided substantial governmental support for stem cell research.…”