Statement of Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich On The Veto Override Of The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act

Statement of Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich On The Veto Override Of The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act

Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich (D-OH) issued the following statement on the House vote to override the President's veto of HR 810, The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act:

"This debate is not about whether or not embryonic stem cell research should occur. The Administration is not stopping private embryonic stem cell research. It just opposes the expansion of public stem cell research. The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act is the safest, most ethically and morally sound way to proceed with this potentially life-saving scientific advancement.

"The private sector is not restricted from such research. The legislation, vetoed today, would have expanded the number of frozen embryos to be used for stem cell research by the Federal Government. Federally sponsored research is subject to greater oversight and safeguards and higher ethical standards.

"Recent scientific breakthroughs have demonstrated that embryonic stem cell research has life saving potential. It could result in saving millions of lives. It could be the answer to the prayers of those who suffer from Parkinson's, diabetes, cancer, heart disease, spinal cord injuries and other debilitating conditions.

"Embryonic stem cell research will continue with or without the federal government. This bill would have expanded federal research, which will be subject to greater oversight and safeguards.

"I disagree with the President's decision to veto this important legislation and hope Congress will continue to work to advance this important, and life saving research."

http://kucinich.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=47366