[Congressional Record Volume 153, Number 7 (Friday, January 12, 2007)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E101]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




               STEM CELL RESEARCH ENHANCEMENT ACT OF 2007

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                               speech of

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 11, 2007

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to enter into the Record my 
support for the H.R. 3, Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007. 
This bill will enable continuing scientific research on embryonic stem 
cells that will provide enhanced treatments and potential cures for the 
millions of Americans afflicted with chronic and debilitating diseases.
  The benefits that stem cell research promises can dramatically 
enhance the quality of life for people suffering from spinal cord 
injuries, diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke, Alzheimer's and 
Parkinson's disease, among many others. It will allow these Americans 
and their families the opportunity to enjoy healthier and more 
fulfilling lives.
  Stem cell research has the support of over 100 million people 
suffering from these diseases, medical professionals, and the American 
people. With over 200 health organizations, research universities, 
advocacy groups and scientific societies supporting stem cell research, 
it is the responsibility of the United States govemment to listen and 
actively ensure progress in the field of medicine in saving people's 
lives.
  In the Republican controlled 109th Congress, the Stem Cell Research 
Enhancement Act of 2005 was passed in the House, later to be vetoed by 
President Bush. This administration cannot continue to impede the 
efforts of sound scientific research based on ideological beliefs. In 
an age of tremendous technological and scientific advances, we must 
allow the medical community to engage in research that will benefit all 
Americans.
  This legislation provides strict ethical guidelines for the usage of 
embryonic stem cells to further medical research. The stem cells will 
be donated from in vitro fertilization clinics that have an excess of 
stem cells from individuals no longer needing fertility treatment. 
Individuals that sought fertility treatment were consulted before the 
donation of stem cells, and it was determined that these stem cells 
would never be used in future treatment and would thus be discarded. In 
addition, individuals donating stem cells did so with written informed 
consent and were not paid any monetary compensation or given any other 
incentives to do so.
  These individuals have offered their support in enhancing further 
research through their donations, and we ought to follow by ensuring 
that their contribution to stem cell research help those who suffer.
  The medical and science community see the potential of this research 
to treat people with damage to the spinal cord, heart, brain and 
skeletal muscles. Those who suffer from genetic diseases, those whose 
life depends on organ transplants, and those who are ravaged by the 
affects of degenerative diseases will benefit from the research 
performed on embryonic stem cells.
  It is our responsibility to support legislation that will provide the 
resources to improve the lives of Americans who suffer everyday. I 
commend my colleagues for readdressing this issue, and urge you to 
support this bill.

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