Stem Cell Research

The House State Affairs Committee considered Rep. Ken Paxton's bill on unethical biomedical research. HB 225 prohibited the state from spending taxpayer dollars on human embryonic stem cell research (which requires the destruction of human embryos) and human cloning. It is financially irresponsible for taxpayer dollars to be spent on embryonic stem cell research which has not produced any clinical benefits. In contrast, adult stem cell research is not ethically controversial and has saved the lives of over 20,000 Americans. Taking money that could be used on adult stem cell research and instead spending it on unethical embryonic stem cell research is a travesty that would kill life instead of save it. Free Market Foundation's Director of Legislative Affairs, Jonathan Saenz, testified in support of HB 225 on April 12. The Committee report was voted favorably 5-1, with three members absent. The bill was sent to Calendars for scheduling a vote on the House floor. The bill never made it to the House floor for the vote.

If you are interested in further information, please check Texas Legislature Online for status of these bills.