(Warwick, R.I.) Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) today will vote, again, to lift the federal ban on embryonic stem cell research.

Since August 9, 2001, when the Bush Administration enacted restrictive regulations that allow federal funding for research solely on those stem cell lines derived prior to August 2001, Langevin has been an outspoken advocate for expanding the federal government’s role and involvement in stem cell research.

Langevin rallied support for the bill on the House Floor earlier today and subsequently offered the following statement:

“I am proud to support the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act and to be a part of a Congress that has made this a top priority. This legislation has strong, bipartisan support in both chambers of Congress, enjoys the support of up to 70 percent of Americans, and offers hope and the promise of a cure to the millions of patients suffering from chronic disease and disability.

“I am the first to admit that my understanding of stem cell research has involved ongoing education, thought and prayer. I am opposed to abortion and committed to the protection of all life, and I have not taken my decision to support this legislation lightly.  Over the years, I had the good fortune to learn about stem cell research from some of America’s renowned scientists, pro-life leaders like Senator Orrin Hatch, and a dear friend who is certainly on my mind today – Christopher Reeve. 

“I have come to support embryonic stem cell research with appropriate safeguards and firmly believe that this research can be done ethically.  I also believe that I have a responsibility to fight for legislation that will eliminate pain and suffering and help people enjoy longer, healthier lives. Support for embryonic stem cell research is entirely consistent with that responsibility, and with a pro-life position.  

“My education on this issue has filled me with tremendous hope, not only that stem cell research might one day lead to a cure for spinal cord injuries, but that one day a child with diabetes will no longer face a lifetime of painful shots and tests and families will no longer watch in agony as a loved one with Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s gradually declines

“There is no doubt in my mind that stem cell research is poised to change the face of medicine, and I hope all of my colleagues will support this legislation today.”

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