Stem Cell Bill Passes House, but Veto Probable

In a 253-174 vote, the U.S. House of Representatives has again passed a bill designed to encourage embryonic-stem cell research. Considered this session as part of the House Democratic majority’s "first 100 hours" of legislation, the bill H.R. 3, would expand federal funding for research that utilizes human embryonic stem cells under four ethical conditions:

• the stem cells were derived from human embryos donated from in vitro fertilization clinics for the purpose of fertility treatment;

• the donated embryos were in excess of the needs of the individuals seeking such treatment;

• the donated embryos would have never been implanted in a woman and would have otherwise been discarded; and

• persons donating the embryos were provided with written, informed consent and received no financial or other inducements for the donation.

The bill passed today is identical to the version passed by the previous – Republican-controlled – Congress in the summer of 2006, but vetoed by President Bush. It was President Bush’s first and only veto so far, but he is expected to again veto the current stem cell bill, if passed by the Senate. The 174 votes garnered by the bill remains far short of the 290 required to override a presidential veto in the House.

President Bush has always favored alternative methods of stem cell research in which the cells are derived from body tissue other than human embryos. Of this type of stem cell research, he has stated, "We must continue to explore these hopeful alternatives, so we can advance the cause of scientific research while staying true to the ideals of a decent and humane society."

Also See:
Bush Vetoes Stem Cell Bill (2006)
Bush May Veto More Bills from Democratic Congress
Stem Cell Research - Basics & Issues, Advocacy Positions (US Liberals)