HUMAN CLONING PROHIBITION ACT OF 2007 -- (House of Representatives - June 06, 2007)
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Mr. SPACE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H.R. 2560.
Mr. Speaker, I am a fervent supporter of the promise and optimism of embryonic stem cell research. As the father of a child who suffers from juvenile diabetes, I know full well the importance of stem cell research in developing a cure for life threatening diseases. For millions of Americans like my son, stem cell research represents promising hope of a cure within their lifetime.
Unfortunately, many Americans confuse embryonic stem cell research as human cloning, a practice which I adamantly oppose.
While technological advances continue to give scientists opportunities to explore beyond our horizons, we have an obligation to pursue our goals responsibly. The pursuit of science cannot go unchecked; occasionally, Congress must intervene.
The artificial creation of human life through cloning challenges the ethical foundations of this Nation. The development of human life is a natural process that cannot be replaced by scientists in a laboratory. I cannot in good conscience support a world where the chance and wonder of the birth of a child is eliminated in favor of a cold, sterile process.
Embryonic stem cell research differs from cloning by developing embryos that might otherwise be destroyed for specific functions. The goal of this practice is not to create new human life, but rather to sustain existing human life by replacing failing parts of the human anatomy.
I will always support saving an American life. I cannot support artificially engineering one.
The importance of this distinction is critical. I hope that my colleagues in the House will join me in educating the public on the differences between these practices.
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