Washington, Jul 19 -  

U.S. Representative Clay Shaw (R-FL) released the statement below regarding today’s House override vote on H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Investment Act. The measure passed the House and the Senate and was then vetoed by the President. Rep. Clay Shaw, a cosponsor of H.R. 810, voted today in the House to override the President’s veto.

“I am disappointed the President vetoed this measure, but I am proud to have stood with many of my colleagues in an attempt to override his decision. H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Investment Act, is a responsible approach to stem cell research. This measure draws a strict ethical line by only allowing federally funded research on stem cells that have been donated and are determined to be in excess. Under no circumstances does the bill allow for the creation of embryos for research nor does it fund the destruction of embryos.

“Scientists believe that stems cells may be used for the treatment of and cures for developmental diseases, as well as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, juvenile diabetes and even cancer. H.R. 810 is a pro-life bill – it is about sustaining life.

“More than a half million Americans are diagnosed with cancer each year. If stem cell science can help medical research by discovering life-saving cures for dreadful diseases, I am supportive of these efforts.”

Clay Shaw is a two time lung cancer survivor and is the co-founder of the House 2015 Caucus, which was formed by Members of Congress who have been directly affected by cancer.

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