Statement Attributable to William Keye, M.D.
President, American Society for Reproductive Medicine

“ASRM is very disappointed in the President's continued opposition to research into a technology that could unlock cures for millions of Americans. Even the advice of the country's foremost scientists has not persuaded the President to consider the benefits that may result from the therapeutic use of cloning technology.

Out nation’s leading scientists have again and again spoken in favor of this research. The National Academy of Sciences and now 40 Nobel Laureates have realized its tremendous potential and have called on the federal government to oversee it, not prohibit it. While no reputable scientists support the reproductive cloning of human beings, the vast majority recognizes that therapeutic cloning has the potential to help those with chronic illnesses who need to replace diseased or damaged tissues.

Insisting on a ban of all cloning technology is effectively an “all-or-nothing” policy that will prevent Congress from accomplishing the important goal of banning reproductive cloning, unless it also bans the research and therapeutic applications of the technology. If all cloning technology is made illegal in the United States, other countries, some of which have already approved this technology, could benefit, attracting our leading biological scientists in a “brain drain.” As a result, America could relinquish its place as the leader in bio-medical research and Americans could lose access to cures developed for diseases."

ASRM, founded in 1944, has more than 8,500 members who are devoted to advancing knowledge and expertise in reproductive medicine and biology. ASRM-affiliate societies include the Society of Reproductive Surgeons, the Society for Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, the Society for Male Reproduction and Urology, and the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology.