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Entry for February 17, 2007 Dear Tracy: Thank you for contacting me regarding stem cell research. I share your concern, and am proud to be a cosponsor of S.5/H.R.3 (S.471/H.R.810 during the 109th Congress), the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act of 2007. This bill would lift the restriction on stem cell lines derived after August 9, 2001. President Bushâ?Ts policy stalls progress by limiting the availability of stem cell lines. The implemented policy intended to make 78 embryonic stem cell lines available for research. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen barriers, the National Institute of Health estimates that only19 cell lines are available today. This is far below what is necessary for effective research. Expanding the number of stem cell lines that are eligible for federally funded research is crucial for advancing the treatments for a wide range of diseases, and for bringing us closer to developing cures. During the 109th Congress, a year after then-Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-TN) expressed his public support for S.471/H.R.810, the bill finally came to the Senate floor for consideration. The bill, which had passed out of the House of Representatives in May 2005, passed the Senate with a 63-37 vote. Many senators with solid "pro-life" voting records joined me in voting for this bill, which demonstrates that support for increased stem cell research has diverged from the traditional pro-life debate. My remarks on the Senate floor can be found on my website, www.obama.senate.gov, in the News Room section. On July 19, 2006, President Bush vetoed this legislation. This was the first time during his tenure that the President used his veto power. The vast majority of excess fertilized eggs, from which embryonic stem cells are derived, are discarded and serve no utility. It is a shame to have such potential for medical advancements and lifesaving cures literally thrown away as the clock is ticks for so many people suffering from Parkinsonâ?Ts, Juvenile Diabetes, and many other disorders. I am extremely disappointed in the President's decision, and hope he would reconsider if and when this legislation passes out of Congress again. The fight is far from over. Again, Tracy, thank you for contacting me. Please stay in touch in the days to come. Sincerely, Barack Obama United States Senator ---------------------------------------------------------------------- To sign-off Parkinsn send a message to: mailto:[log in to unmask] In the body of the message put: signoff parkinsn