Texas May Say "No" to Embryonic Stem Cell Research

Excitement in the Texas scientific community over the lifting of restrictions on embryonic stem cell research may be short-lived. On Monday, the state Senate Finance Committee added language to the budget that would bar the use of state funds for embryonic stem cell research. A quick search of the Texas Legislature Online shows the language, introduced by Senator Steve Ogden, R-Bryan, into Senate Bill 1695:

A person may not use state money or a facility owned, leased, or managed by a state agency, department or office for research involving the destruction of human embryos, including embryonic stem cell research, or to support research involving the destruction of human embryos.

The use of embryonic stem cells in medical research has been hotly debated since the technology first emerged. By altering the media in which stem cells are grown, scientists have shown that the cells can be stimulated to differentiate into many cell types and tissues. Advocates of embryonic stem cell research argue that the newly grown tissue could result in cures for diseases such as Parkinson's and diabetes, and could lead to recovery from spinal cord injuries, and vision and hearing loss. The research requires the destruction of human embryos, which opponents claim is morally indefensible no matter the outcome of the research.

As reported by the Chronicle, Senator Kirk Watson, D-Austin, believes the language is broad enough to prevent embryonic stem cell research in state buildings by state employees, regardless of the origin of the funding. In response to the provision, a group of Texas scientists sent a letter to lawmakers urging them to remove the language. The bill has not yet reached the Senate floor, but is expected to be put to a vote today.

Photo courtesy of Flickr user laimagendelmundo