The group called Cures Without Cloning wants to reverse a key part of a Missouri constitutional amendment narrowly approved last year by voters.
The measure approved in 2006 ensures that all federally allowed stem cell research can occur in Missouri. That includes a controversial embryonic cloning technique.
Supporters of the new measure want to change the definition of human cloning to ban that procedure. They claim the current definition allows the creation and killing of early human lives. Their proposal would prohibit that particular procedure but would not prevent other forms of embryonic stem cell research.
“The people of Missouri spoke on this issue last year and voted for hope and opportunity,” said Jack Cardetti, Missouri Democratic Party spokesman. “The Missouri Democratic Party will oppose any effort to overturn the will of the people and criminalize potentially life-saving research that could cure everything from juvenile diabetes to Alzheimer’s.“After the passage of Amendment 2 last year, Gov. Blunt and his Republican leadership turned their backs on stem cell research and embraced an anti-cures agenda that cost this state research and economic opportunities,” Cardetti said. “Missouri has the potential to be a national leader in the advancement of life-saving stem cell research – but it needs a Governor who will stand up and fight the anti-science special interests.”
Jay Nixon also issued this statement:
"Last year, the people of Missouri went to the polls and voiced their commitment to making Missouri a state that embraces the promise of ethical life-saving science. I believe strongly in this goal and I oppose any effort to criminalize responsible research. We have the tools to unlock the mysteries to so many terminal diseases and debilitating injuries. Here in Missouri, we should be expanding research facilities and recruiting world-renowned stem cell doctors. We just need leaders with the courage to speak up and put ethical life-saving research ahead of politics.”
No statement was released today by Gov. Blunt.
PS . . . To journalists . . . Can you imagine having to re-explain this complex issue in stories all over again and trying to get people to try to understand it?
1 comment:
Publishing the legislation as written would help.
There is a ton of background on the issue which you have access to.
Stem Cells were a background issue for a number of passive aggressive action taken during the Senate session.
Also, Missourian's are more educated about the issue which gives you a head start!
Branson Missouri
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