Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act
The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act is a bill in the U.S. Congress designed to promote research into stem cell technology utilizing human embryos. Two attempts were made at turning the bill into law early in the 21st century, both vetoed by President George W. Bush. The proponents and opponents of the bill stand firmly on opposite sides regarding the passage of the legislation, many pointing to religious and social convictions.
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Function
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The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act is designed to provide federal funding for stem cell research for new lines of stem cells. These cells would come from discarded embryos created by the process of fertility treatments.
Features
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A number of arguments have been made on both sides of the debate over the content of the bill. Proponents of the act point to possible medical advancements from the study of stem cells and the fact that the embryos used are going to be discarded either way. Opponents stand against the use of human embryos for research as a precedent and on religious grounds.
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First Attempt
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In 2005, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act became the first bill ever vetoed by President George W. Bush. The House of Representatives passed the bill by a vote of 238 to 194, while the Senate passed it by a vote of 63 to 37. However, the House failed to override the veto by a two-thirds majority.
Second Attempt
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A second attempt at passing the legislation occurred in 2007. The bill was essentially the same as the one vetoed by President Bush in 2005. The Senate passed the bill by a vote of 63 to 34, while the House passed it by a vote of 247 to 176. Again, the President vetoed the measure. However, an override was not attempted this time.
Considerations
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A number of private companies and state budgets support the research. In addition, scientists in other countries are receiving support to conduct stem cell research. A lack of passage of the legislation may be holding the U.S. back from new technologies.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit National Science Foundation; Public Domain
