(Washington, D.C.)–Congressman Jim Langevin today expressed his optimism that the House will pass the bipartisan Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act (H.R. 810), legislation he has been pushing for the past three years that would significantly expand current stem cell research efforts. Langevin called on his colleagues to support the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act and thanked the House leadership for finally agreeing to hold an up-or-down vote on the bill.

The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to fund research on stem cell lines derived after August 9, 2001. Under the bill, only those excess embryonic stem cells derived from in vitro fertilization and slated for destruction could be used for research, with government oversight to ensure ethical research procedures.

“This legislation would ensure strict ethical oversight, while at the same time providing America’s scientists with the resources they need to develop cutting-edge, life-saving treatments and cures for diseases and chronic conditions,” said Congressman Langevin. “Stem cell research offers millions of Americans the hope of a more fulfilling and independent life -- and in many cases, the hope of life itself.”

During his Congressional tenure, Langevin has been a strong proponent of increasing government funding and expanding the number of stem cell lines available for research. He has written to the President on multiple occasions, urging him to reconsider current restrictions, testified before a Senate Committee in favor of stem cell research funding, made multiple statements on the House floor in support of lifting current restrictions, appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press in August 2001 and spoke at the 2004 Democratic National Convention to argue for expanded research, as well as increased federal oversight to address ethical concerns.

Langevin will be participating in a number of events in Washington, DC, to highlight the bill. On Tuesday, May 24, at 9:30am at the Cannon Terrace he will kick off a rally held by patient advocacy groups supporting the legislation. He is also available for interviews throughout the week.

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