April 20, 2007

LANSING - In her weekly radio address, Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today endorsed bills introduced by Representative Andy Meisner that will update Michigan laws to allow potentially life-saving stem cell research in the state.

"The Michigan laws that restrict stem cell research are outdated from a time before scientists really understood the amazing potential that stem cells hold," Granholm said.  "Meanwhile even as the U.S. Congress supports stem cell bills, President Bush maintains that he will reject and veto any legislation expanding stem cell research.  With the president and mainstream America disagreeing on this issue, it's critical that we move forward in Michigan."

Earlier this month, Governor Granholm joined a number of other governors to urge the U.S. Senate to pass legislation ending federal restrictions on embryonic stem cell research.  Granholm said the research is important for Michigan citizens, because it holds the potential to improve treatment or even cure conditions, including Parkinson's disease, juvenile diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.

At the same time, Michigan's world-class university system and research hospitals are well-positioned to take a leading role in embryonic stem cell research.  Granholm said permitting embryonic stem cell research in Michigan could spur economic growth in the life sciences industry, leading to private investment and creating cutting-edge jobs.

"We need to act now.  Representative Meisner's legislation will pave the way for sensible, safe embryonic stem cell research," Granholm said.  "Let's take the lead in Michigan by updating our laws and allowing and encouraging potentially life-saving embryonic stem cell research in our state."

The governor's weekly radio address is released each Friday morning and may be heard on broadcast stations across the state through an affiliation with the Michigan Association of Broadcasters.  The address will also be available on the Governor's website on Mondays as a podcast for general distribution to personal MP3 players and home computers.

Broadcasters Note:  Governor Granholm's radio address can be accessed through Sunday evening exclusively through the Members Only page of the Michigan Association of Broadcasters Website. 

Publishers Note:  The text of today's address is attached.