Costa calls for passage of stem research bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. -Congressman Jim Costa, D-Fresno, spoketoday on the House floor calling for the passage of H.R. 3, The Stem CellResearch Enhancement Act of 2007. Costa's remarks, as prepared for delivery,follow:

"Mr. Speaker: I rise to speak in support of H.R. 3, whichwould expand stem cell research.

"The narrow view of stem cell research espoused by theAdministration places unrealistic limitations on the medical researchcapabilities of this nation.

"The Administration's position on this critical issue leavespatients across America without the hope that they can be cured of the effectsof a host of medical conditions including, but not limited to Parkinson's andAlzheimer's diseases and spinal cord injuries.

"The conditions may be curable through stem cell research.But we will only find cures if Congress acts to allow full fledged research totake place.

"We owe it to the afflicted and their families to put forthour best effort to find cures for these debilitating medical conditions.

"I urge the House to put political posturing aside and givehope to patients and their families by passing H.R. 3."

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