What editorial writers are saying about stem cell research ban

Editorial writers' reactions to the ban included concerns that potential cures for diseases are in jeopardy and calls to enact legislation clarifying the issue.

Congress should clarify law on embryonic stem cell research

Congress and the Obama administration must work swiftly to untangle this latest knot. They could best do that by clarifying legislation known as the Dickey-Wicker Amendment. Kansas City Star, Aug. 24

Flawed position on stem cells skirts the law

A federal judge has seen through President Barack Obama's attempt to use word games to circumvent a law intended to prevent destruction of human embryos. Though the judge's decision does not halt government funding of research in which embryos are destroyed, it is a good first step. We hope opponents of the practice pursue a complete ban in court. Parkersburg (W. Va.) News and Sentinel, Aug. 31

Research too valuable to lose

While the appeals process grinds on, the simplest resolution would be for Congress to act. Twice during the Bush years it overturned the ban only to have President Bush veto the legislation. The lawmakers should give it another try. This research is too important to just walk away from it. Ventura County (Calif.) Star, Aug. 27

Judge's ruling sets back stem cell research

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine will be able to press on with its embryonic stem cell research, thanks to the wisdom of California's voters. But it means the institute's scientists won't be able to collaborate with those whose funding was dependent on federal grants. San Francisco Chronicle, Aug. 26

Congress should move promptly to allow embryonic stem cell research to continue

Even though embryonic stem cells are still crucial, researchers in Michigan are striving to convert adult skin cells into "pluripotent" stem cells, which are similar to embryonic stem cells. This research could eventually sidestep the need for embryos, the [University of Michigan] contends. The Detroit News, Aug. 31