Thursday, January 25, 2007
Governor Calls for Bill to Lift on Embryonic Stem Cell Research
GOVERNOR CULVER’S BUDGET WILL CALL FOR $12.5 MILLION FOR STEM CELL RESEARCH CENTER AT UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
(Des Moines) Today, at the University of Iowa’s Medical Education and Research Facility, Governor Chet Culver discussed his vision for the future of embryonic stem cell research in Iowa.
At the University of Iowa, Governor Culver called on the legislature to lift the state ban on embryonic stem cell research and give hope to Iowans suffering from diseases like cancer, diabetes, Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
“Today, I call on the Iowa State Legislature to repeal the ban on stem cell research in this state so that we can restore hope for thousands of Iowans,” said Governor Culver.
In addition, Governor Culver announced that when he presents his budget to the legislature on Tuesday, he will include $12.5 million for the construction of Iowa’s Center for Regenerative Medicine to be built at the University of Iowa.
“Simply lifting the ban will not be enough,” said Governor Culver. “We must commit state resources now to finding a cure and ensuring a high quality of life for future generations. Right now, Iowa is at a competitive disadvantage with other states. While surrounding states like Wisconsin, Illinois and Missouri are moving forward to build research facilities, lure away our researchers and pass new legislation allowing embryonic stem cell research, Iowa continues to tie the hands of our best health science professionals with an outdated ban on this lifesaving research.
“That’s why next week I will propose in my budget $12.5 million for the construction of Iowa’s Center for Regenerative Medicine here in Iowa City. We will get back in the game, attracting researchers here with our facilities, the great minds on our research staff, and the promise of a welcoming environment for their work.”