The Stem Cell Debate In Delaware Almost Over
Related News: Cloning News, Stem Cells and GovernmentThe Delaware House, in a 38-3 vote, approved amendment number two to Senate Bill 80.
This bill dictates that anyone who is caught cloning in Delaware will face a million dollar fine. Additionally, anyone selling embryos whether it be a woman, physician or fertility clinic faces a $100,000 fine.
"That amendment was driven by public outcry because Delaware doesn't have a ban on cloning and that was something that probably should have been done years ago," said Rep. Deborah Hudson.
The change to Senate Bill 80 deals specifically with embryonic stem cell research. Ethical questions surrounding about the science is has forced legislators to put the research on hold.
Hudson stated that another bill specifically discussing embryonic stem cell research could be reviewed this session or it may come back up in the future.
"It's not being done in Delaware right now. Now it's good to put the regulations in place so that when scientist are ready for that, we wouldn't be going backwards and trying to catch up to get regulations in place for a new company," she said.
Stem cell research is currently legal in Delaware without supervision or guidance. However, changes to Senate Bill 80 will prevent anyone from taking advantage of the research.
The Senate could possibly vote on the new version of Senate Bill 80 Thursday. If it passes, Governor Minner will receive the bill to sign.
Posted on January 20, 2006 02:37 PM