Friday, March 13, 2009

Georgia Senate Bans Creation of Embryos for Research


LAWRENCEVILLE, Georgia, March 13 /Christian Newswire/ -- The Georgia Senate passed SB169: The Ethical Treatment of Human Embryos Act. This is a victory for those who oppose the wanton making of human life for the sole purpose of destroying it.

This bill continues to allow for the advancement of scientific research, while also addressing the important ethical questions related in the ongoing debate about Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research (HESCR).

First, it allows for the continuation of research that is already being done on existing stem cell lines. It supports the scientific research and discoveries that continue to be found through adult stem cell research, as well as other non-destructive stem cell research like the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPs).

Second, it limits the creation of new embryos in Georgia for destructive, scientific purposes, such as human cloning and human-animal hybrids (called chimeras).

"We've established a Sanctity of Life beachhead in the 21st century but know that we have major battles ahead," said Dan Becker, president of Georgia Right to Life.

"We have always supported adult stem cell research which to date has 70 documented cures to its credit. We are opposed to destructive Human Embryonic Stem Cell research and applaud the Georgia Senate for passing SB 169," continued Becker. "It is a step in the direction of constitutional Personhood for all humans from fertilization to natural death."

On Monday, Governor Perdue stated, "I am absolutely opposed to creating embryos to cure a disease."

Georgia Right to Life promotes respect and effective legal protection for all human life from its earliest biological beginning through natural death. GRTL is one of a number of organizations that have adopted Personhood as the most effective pro-life strategy for the 21st century.