New Bill Against the Ban of Embryonic Stem Cell Use for Research
The supporters of the use of human embryonic stem cells for research, the South Dakotans for Lifesaving Cures have announced to seek a repeal of the South Dakota’s ban on the research at the Legislature. Similar attempt has failed in year 2009 because it was rejected by the state Senate with 20 to 14 against the repeal. The main problem seems to be the compare of embryonic stem cell use with destruction of human life and inadequate evidence about potential benefits of the research. In addition, the use of embryonic stem cell for scientific research is often closely tied with fear that it will lead to cloning although the supporters of the research have clearly stated themselves against cloning and oppose any change of the law that prohibits cloning. The bill that is going to be introduced to the Senate will contain clearer statements about the support to the prohibition of cloning as well as restriction of use of embryonic stem cells for research.
The co-chairman of the South Dakotans for Lifesaving Cures, David Volk is very optimistic and believes that the Senate will accept their bill although Dave Knudson from the Republican Party expressed his doubts about the group’s success. The supporters of the use of embryonic stem cells for scientific research can count on Scott Heideprien from the Democratic Party who has voted for the repeal that failed in 2009 and has announced his support to the new bill with an argument that restriction of embryonic stem cell for research does not protect life because unused embryos are discarded.
Both parties support the use of mature stem cells derived from bone marrow in adults and children for research on diabetes and other medical conditions but they disagree when it comes to human embryonic stem cells. Latter come from an egg that was fertilized in a laboratory to help the couples with conception difficulties.
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