Senator Amy Klobuchar

Working for the People of Minnesota

Press Contact

Joel Gross
Press Secretary
(202) 224-3244

News Releases

Senator Klobuchar Votes for Research to Seek New Life-Saving Cures

April 11, 2007

(Washington, D.C.) U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar voted today for legislation to expand the number of embryonic stem cell lines accessible to federally-funded scientists who are seeking new treatments and cures for severe medical conditions like juvenile diabetes, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease, spinal cord injuries and certain types of cancer.

Klobuchar voted in support of S. 5, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007. With bipartisan support, the legislation passed this evening by a vote of 63 to 34. The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a similar bill.

"In Minnesota, we believe in science," said Klobuchar. "As home to world-class medical institutions like the Mayo Clinic and the University of Minnesota, we have always been on the cutting edge of new medical frontiers. Stem cell research promises to be the pathway for a new generation of life-saving cures, offering hope to millions of Americans and their families."

Klobuchar added: "While providing important ethical guidelines and oversight, this legislation will promote vital medical progress in the fight against many devastating diseases."

Under current law, federally-funded scientists have access only to stem cells derived before August 9, 2001. Many of these are contaminated and unhealthy to use. The new legislation permits research on stem cells derived from embryos that would otherwise be discarded by fertilization clinics. The ethical safeguards include a ban on cloning and profiteering.

Similar legislation was passed last year by both the House and Senate, but was vetoed by President Bush.

"When it comes to medical progress and cures," Klobuchar said, "we need to rise above partisan politics, as the Senate did today. The expansion of federal funding for stem cell research enjoys both bipartisan support in Congress and widespread support among the public."

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