Media Center

Today Congressman David Scott (D-GA) released the following statement on the pending House vote on the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007 (H.R. 3), which is cosponsored by Congressman Scott:

“I am proud to join with Members of Congress, from both sides of the aisle, to put patients first by supporting this bill,” Congressman Scott said. “I have heard overwhelming support for expanding stem cell research from constituents throughout my district. The discovery of the potential power human stem cells hold has opened the door to the possibility of treatments and cures for many different diseases and debilitating injuries, including diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis and cancer.”

H.R. 3 will increase the number of embryonic stem lines eligible to be used for federally-funded research. The bill only authorizes the use of stem cell lines generated from embryos that otherwise would be discarded by fertility clinics, adhering to strict ethical guidelines.

“I believe this bill will significantly advance groundbreaking research and give hope to millions of American families affected by debilitating diseases.”

H.R. 3 will be brought up for a vote on the House Floor later today. Congressman Scott was an original cosponsor when the bill was introduced last week.