America's Concerns -- Stem Cell Research

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 9, 2001

Christopher Reeve Responds to President Bush's Decision on Federal Funding for Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research.

"President Bush's decision today to allow federal funding for human embryonic stem cell research on a limited basis is a step in the right direction. However, this political compromise may seriously hinder progress toward finding treatments and cures for a wide variety of diseases and disorders that affect 100 million Americans.

"By allowing scientists access even to 60 existing stem cell lines, the President is still limiting the pace and effectiveness of federally supported research. Scientists may need to use an unknown number of cell lines and should not be restricted to those that presently exist.

"Recent polls show that an overwhelming majority of Americans support research within the guidelines of the National Institutes of Health adopted during the Clinton Administration. Few issues enjoy broader bipartisan support in Congress. The Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation supports President Bush's appointment of an advisory council on stem cell research and welcomes the opportunity to serve on such a council.

"Because of the President's decision, it may now be up to Congress to enact legislation that will enable scientists to fully explore the potential of human embryonic stem cell research."