FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

S. 5 Will Go Directly to the President's Desk

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Hodes voted to pass S. 5, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. The bill gives hope to 100 million Americans who suffer from cancer, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetes, spinal cord injuries and other debilitating diseases and disorders by greatly expanding scientists' access to embryonic stem cell lines.

"Today Members of Congress from both sides of the aisle joined together to put patients first," Congressman Hodes said. "We took the first step down a long road that could lead to better treatment and possibly cures for some of the most insidious diseases we face."

"This research has the support of more than 70 percent of Americans and I hope that, this year, the President will reconsider his veto threat and listen to the voices of the American people by signing this bill," Congressman Hodes concluded.

The bill is supported by more than 500 organizations, including the American Medical Association, AARP, Association of American Medical Colleges, and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, as well as many faith-based groups.

The House passed S. 5 this afternoon by a vote of 247 to 176.

The House had passed a similar bill (H.R. 3) as part of the First 100 Hours Agenda in January. The Senate then passed S. 5 in April. By passing the Senate-passed S. 5 today, the House is sending the bill directly to the President's desk.