Congress: Votes and Amendments

The history of stem cell research dates from the mid-19th century and has always been mired in controversy and ethical issues. It was not until the 1970s, however, that the history of stem cell legislation reached Congress for serious policy debate and legislation. Some key events in stem cell research in the late 20th century included stem cells discovered in human cord blood, in vitro stem cell lines developed from mammals, a lamb cloned from stem cells, and possible proof of cancer stem cells, among other important findings. The rapid progress of stem cell research and discoveries has required that government legislation and regulating agencies keep apace, reviewing research practices and establishing national guidelines.

Following the Supreme Court ruling in Roe v. Wade in 1973, the ...