Connecticut Open for Stem Cell Research

Connecticut, one of the littlest states in the union, is following close behind west coast giant California in funding embryonic stem cell research. On Tuesday, the Connecticut Stem Cell Research Advisory Committee approved long-awaited guidelines for scientists seeking a share of the funds to be awarded in the first two years of the 10-year, $100 […]

Connecticut, one of the littlest states in the union, is following close behind west coast giant California in funding embryonic stem cell research.

On Tuesday, the Connecticut Stem Cell Research Advisory Committee approved long-awaited guidelines for scientists seeking a share of the funds to be awarded in the first two years of the 10-year, $100 million commitment the state legislature approved last spring.

Preference will be given to research conducted with human embryonic stem cells. Most such research projects are ineligible for federal funding.

You could argue, actually, that Connecticut is ahead of California, because CA has been bogged down in lawsuits that have tied up its funds (although California has managed to acquire some bridge loans). New Jersey has also approved embryonic stem cell funding, and several other states have bills in the works. Other states have gone the opposite route and prohibited public spending on human stem cell research.

This page has a great state stem cell law roster.