October 3, 2006 

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that Muhammad Ali and his wife, Lonnie, have signed the online petition asking the state Legislature to ease stem cell research restrictions in Michigan.  The Alis have joined over 7,800 other citizens who have signed the petition launched in July.

Muhammad Ali has been a champion for Parkinson’s disease and stem cell research since being diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 1982.

“Medical leaders, doctors, and scientists continue to work hard to discover cures using complex techniques to find the cause of the disease rather than just treat the symptoms, and stem cell research has the ability to do just that,” Ali said.  “We are joining Governor Granholm in encouraging all Michigan citizens to unite in the fight to ease the restrictions on stem cell research in Michigan.”

“I would like to thank Muhammad Ali and his wife, Lonnie, for their support and great leadership on this critical issue,” Granholm said.  “Talented researchers and businesses around the world are working right now on cures for these devastating diseases through the promise stem cell research holds.  These cures could have tremendous impact on the lives of Michigan citizens who live with these illnesses and could ease the pain felt by their families.”

Congress has acted on the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act.  Despite overwhelming bipartisan support for the legislation in both the Senate and House, the president vetoed the legislation in July.

Granholm has been a consistent advocate of expanded stem cell research and called for the easing of Michigan’s restrictions in her 2006 State of the State address. In her speech, Granholm called on the Legislature to pass House Bill 4900 sponsored by Representative Andy Meisner (D-Ferndale).  Similar legislation has been introduced in the State Senate by Senator Gretchen Whitmer (D-East Lansing).

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