Human Embryonic Stem Cell Research Endorsed by Illinois Lawmakers
 | Gov. Blagojevich signed a bill that will force Illinois taxpayers to fund human embryonic stem cell research. |
In his 1961 inaugural address, President John F. Kennedy noted, "The world is very different now. For man holds in his mortal hands the power to abolish all forms of human poverty and all forms of human life."
Nearly half a century later, we are witnessing firsthand the fulfillment of Kennedy's words as yesterday Governor Rod Blagojevich signed a bill that allows public funding of research on stem cells, including human embryonic stem cells.
"Stem-cell research has limitless potential to help cure devastating diseases -- from Parkinson's to diabetes and even many forms of cancer," Blagojevich said in a written statement. "Since the federal government continues to stall the medical advancements that will come with stem-cell research, it is up to Illinois to take action." (President George W. Bush has twice vetoed federal legislation for human embryonic stem cell research.)
Despite his spin, the governor's words not only discount fiscal accountability, but ignore moral responsibility. It is a fact, human embryonic stem cell research has yet to product a single cure while adult stem cells have shown great promise in treating a variety of illnesses. Yet, Gov. Blagojevich and the majority of Illinois lawmakers passed this law that will use our tax dollars to support human embryonic stem cell research -- research that has failed to produced even one "medical advancement."
The destruction of human life for any purposes -- regardless of how noble they may appear -- should have been sufficient cause for Springfield legislators to emphatically reject official endorsement of human embryonic stem cell research. Yet, in addition to moral disregard, this law epitomizes the height of fiscal irresponsibility.
According to the non-partisan Tax Foundation, Illinois ranks 25th in the nation in the State Business Tax Climate Index Rankings. The governor claims that funding embryonic stem cell research will spur new business ventures, but in reality, business-friendly tax policies and not questionable and risky spending initiatives are what will draw and keep businesses.
In his inaugural address, President Kennedy reminded his listeners that "the same revolutionary beliefs for which our forebears fought are still at issue around the globe -- the belief that the rights of man come not from the generosity of the state, but from the hand of God."
Unfortunately, Gov. Blago and the Illinois General Assembly are willing to play god in the name of so-called "medical advancement".
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