[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 41 (Monday, March 9, 2009)]
[Senate]
[Page S2874]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                               STEM CELLS

  Mr. REID. Mr. President, at 12 o'clock today, President Obama brought 
new hope to millions of Americans who suffer from afflictions that one 
day might be cured. President Obama's executive order finally overturns 
the Bush administration's flawed policy on stem cells and restores 
scientific integrity to our law and our policy.
  President Obama's executive order puts science above ideology and 
honors the strong wishes of hundreds of leading medical and scientific 
associations, research universities, patient advocacy groups, and, most 
importantly, the American people.
  Since 2001, our most promising scientists have been forced to work 
literally with one hand tied behind their back. The President's action 
today sends a message to the millions who suffer that help--and hope--
are on the way.
  Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  Oh, I see my friend here.
  Mr. President, through the Chair I ask my friend from South Carolina, 
are you ready to take the floor?
  I suggest the absence of a quorum.
  The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. The clerk will call the roll.
  The assistant legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll.
  Mr. REID. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for 
the quorum call be rescinded.
  The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tempore. Without objection, it is so 
ordered.

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