Stem-cell research initiative qualifies for California ballot

Published: 2004-07-06

LOS ANGELES (CNS) -- After a hard-fought battle between pro-life advocates and backers of embryonic stem-cell research, the "California Stem Cell Research and Cures Act" initiative has qualified for the Nov. 2 ballot in California. The initiative, which is vigorously opposed by the Catholic Church, would create a taxpayer-funded institute to support embryonic stem-cell research "for the development of life-saving regenerative medical treatments and cures." Proponents of the initiative say that embryonic stem cells hold the promise of new treatments or cures for diseases such as diabetes, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, cancer, HIV/AIDS and more than 70 other diseases and conditions. Former first lady Nancy Reagan, who watched President Reagan suffer from the effects of Alzheimer's disease, has become a vocal advocate of such research. She said it "may provide our scientists with answers that have long been beyond our grasp." But opponents of the measure say that the groups in favor of the bill are obscuring the real meaning of the legislation with overly scientific and misleading wording.

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