Coalition for the Advancement of Medical
Research
For immediate release
Contact: Julie Kimbrough, 212-585-3501/646-734-6091
Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research
Applauds Governor Gray Davis of California For Approving Landmark
Stem Cell Legislation
Washington, DC – September 23, 2002 –
The Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR)
applauds California Governor Gray Davis for signing cutting-edge
legislation designed to legalize stem cell research in California.
The legislation will allow stem cell research from any source,
including excess fertilized eggs from in vitro fertilization
clinics. CAMR, comprised of the nation’s leading patient groups,
universities, and scientific societies, has led the charge to
support federal funding for embryonic stem cell research and to
oppose a ban on somatic cell nuclear transfer (commonly known as
therapeutic cloning).
“Governor Davis has clearly demonstrated his commitment to
medical research by signing this new stem cell research bill—a bill
that could help pave the way to cures for 100 million Americans
suffering from life-threatening illnesses and conditions,” said
Michael Manganiello, President of CAMR. “We hope that the trail-
blazing example California has set will be followed by other states
throughout the nation.”
The new law will also help facilitate the voluntary donation of
excess fertilized eggs for stem cell research. Specifically, it will
require that individuals receiving infertility treatments be
provided with information on disposition of their excess fertilized
eggs, including the possibility of donation for research, but would
prohibit the sale of these eggs.
“This legislation is a perfect combination of both encouraging
couples to donate their excess fertilized eggs for stem cell
research, and ensuring that this process remains voluntary by
instituting the necessary regulations and controls to prohibit the
sale of fertilized eggs, which we strongly support,” added
Manganiello. Scientists believe embryonic stem cells may hold vast
potential in the fight against deadly diseases. The cells, which can
replicate themselves indefinitely, may some day be used to grow new
tissue that will become the “missing link” needed to cure some of
the world’s most debilitating illnesses and conditions. Scientists
already have demonstrated that growth factors can direct the
development of human embryonic cells into, for example,
insulin-producing cells that might help cure type-1 diabetes. As
many as 100 million Americans suffer from afflictions such as
diabetes, Parkinson’s, spinal cord injuries, cancer, Alzheimer’s,
ALS, and many others that may be cured by embryonic stem cell
research.
The Coalition for the Advancement of Medical Research (CAMR),
is comprised of nationally-recognized patient organizations,
universities, scientific societies, foundations, and individuals
with life-threatening illnesses and disorders, advocating for the
advancement of breakthrough research and technologies in
regenerative medicine - including stem cell research and somatic
cell nuclear transfer - in order to cure disease and alleviate
suffering. For more information on CAMR, visit the website:
www.camradvocacy.org.