ACTION ALERT
Support increase in number of stem cell lines eligible for federally-funded research
Jan. 11 update: We won! But not by a veto-proof margin. The House vote was 253 to 174. If your representative voted no, urge them to reconsider their vote for the anticipated veto override.
Jan. 10, 2007 - The DeGette-Castle bill (HR 3) will expand stem cell research by increasing the number of stem cell lines eligible to be used in federally-funded research. The stem cells in question are generated from embryos that would otherwise be discarded by fertility clinics.
Current policy allows federal funds to be used for research only on those stem cell lines that existed when President Bush issued an executive order on August 9, 2001.
The House is expected to act on this bill on Thursday, Jan. 11. For more background on stem cells see our position paper.
Take a stand: Contact your Representative in the House and urge her/him to vote for HR 3 and expand stem cell research.
You can contact your Representative through the House Web site.
Below you will find a sample letter regarding this issue. Please feel free to adapt it to your voice, and to add any additional information of importance to you:
Dear Representative ________________,
I urge you to vote in favor of expanding stem cell research (HR 3). For far too long, possible medical advances have been delayed by objections based on narrow religious beliefs. As a nontheistic American, I am appalled that these theological concepts are barring scientific advancements. Stand up for both the separation of church and state and for an end to the suffering of so many Americans by casting your vote for HR 3.
Sincerely,
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