Connecticut Approves Stem Cell Research Bill

HARTFORD, Conn. — The state Senate on Thursday overwhelmingly approved spending $100 million over 10 years to fund stem cell research, including the embryonic research that right-to-life groups oppose but that some scientists believe offers the most hope for curing diseases.

"The message needs to be clear going forth from today that Connecticut isn’t in this for one or two years, but the long haul," said Democratic state Sen. Christopher Murphy.

The bill now goes to the House, where it has the support of the speaker. Republican Gov. M. Jodi Rell said she would be "proud to sign the bill when it reaches my desk."

The vote comes days after the U.S. House voted to lift a ban on using federal funds for new embryonic stem cell research. President Bush has threatened a veto; Connecticut lawmakers said that’s why states need pass their own legislation.

Stem cells from human embryos are the building blocks that give rise to every tissue in the body. Stem cells also exist in adults and in the blood from umbilical cords, but those are considered to be less versatile.

Supporters of embryonic stem cell research say it could provide treatment and perhaps cures for diseases as diverse as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and childhood diabetes. Right-to-life groups and religious groups oppose the research, saying that because it destroys embryos it undermines the value of human life.

"I think there will be a longer debate in the House," said Marie Hilliard, executive director of the Connecticut Catholic Conference.

The legislation would create an advisory board and peer review board to advance and oversee research. It also would require fertility clinics to give people information on how to donate leftover embryos for research. The bill bans cloning and takes steps to avoid creating a market for embryos, eggs or sperm, proponents said.

A similar bill failed last year.