Michigan has now joined a large and growing list of states that have liberalized its stem cell research regulations. It's a move many are praising as a job creator for the Great Lakes state.
Excerpt:
University of Michigan officials Wednesday expressed support for voters' passage of Proposal 2, the amendment to the Michigan Constitution that allows new embryonic stem cell lines to be derived from embryos that have been created for fertility treatment purposes.
The embryos affected by the amendment would otherwise be discarded, unless donated with informed consent.
Proposal 2, approved by voters in the Nov. 4 general election, overturns a 1978 Michigan law that prohibited creation of new stem cell lines from discarded embryos. The amendment will take effect Dec. 19. Prior to passage of Proposal 2, Michigan has been one of the most restrictive states in the country with respect to embryonic stem cell research.
"The passage of Proposal 2 by Michigan voters signals an exciting new era for scientific research and innovation in our state," said UM president Mary Sue Coleman. "By expanding research with the creation of new embryonic stem cells, University of Michigan scientists can broaden their pursuit of therapies and cures for medical disorders that touch the lives of thousands of Michigan families."
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