The Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act is a crucial step in the journey to realizing the full potential of stem cells.

Diseases like Alzheimer’s, diabetes and Parkinson’s wreak havoc on the daily lives of millions of Americans.  Scientists tell us that embryonic stem cell research is one of the most promising paths to treatments and cures for these devastating diseases.

Despite this fact, President Bush has imposed severe restrictions on this research and has even threatened to use his first veto to ensure that scientists can’t use federal funds to search for these cures.

We are on the brink of a new and promising era. But until we stop blocking scientists from exploring the full potential of stem cells, we will not realize all of the lifesaving possibilities that this research offers.

Much as antibiotics revolutionized the treatment of infectious diseases, embryonic stem cell research will revolutionize the way we treat diseases like cancer, ALS and cystic fibrosis.

I am proud that my home state of Massachusetts recently passed legislation promoting comprehensive stem cell research. It is now time for the federal government to take this critical step towards fulfilling our moral obligation to do all we can to reduce pain and suffering around the world, and supporting ethical, comprehensive stem cell research.