Time's Up - Hold a Vote on Stem Cell Research!
On May 24th 2005, a bipartisan majority of the House took an important step to helping extend or save the lives of millions of Americans by passing H.R. 810, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. Leading the Democrats on this bill is Diana DeGette from Colorado's 1st district. Rep. DeGette began working to expand federal support for stem cell research in 2001, before President Bush imposed strict limitations on stem cell lines eligible for funding.
It's now been one year - ONE YEAR - since Senate Republican Leader Bill Frist said he had changed his mind and would support expanding stem cell research beyond President Bush's stifling limitations. That was a moment when millions of Americans suffering from Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Disease, spinal cord injury, diabetes, and other tragic illnesses found renewed hope for a cure - if not for them, for generations to come.
All Senator Frist had to do was schedule a vote on expanding stem cell research. Nobody demanded that he do anything more. One simple vote on the bill that had already passed easily through the House, and it would be placed on President Bush's desk to test his veto threat.
Senator Frist may think that we've forgotten his promise - we need to make clear that we have not. The radical right wing cannot be allowed to trump the will of the vast majority of Americans again. This is far too important.
Tell Senator Frist: Time's Up, Hold the Vote on Stem Cell Research!
Dear Senator Frist,
The House has already passed Representative DeGette's Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act, HR 810 legislation to expand stem cell research. Now the Senate has a rare opportunity for Congress to do something that could lead to the saving of lives and making our nation a better place.
Months ago, you promised to hold that vote, but continue to stall on this vital issue. This bill just needs a vote in the Senate to get to President Bush's desk.
[Your personal comments here]
I urge you keep your word and hold the up-or-down vote on stem cell research.
Sincerely,
[Your name]
[Your address]
