Michigan Proposal 08-2

Michigan Proposal 08-2 of 2008 proposes to amend the Michigan Constitution to remove restrictions on stem cell research in Michigan while maintaining the ban on human cloning. Opponents counter that it will raise taxes. The proposal was passed on November 4, 2008 by voters by a 53 - 47% margin.[1]

The text of the amendment stated:

The proposed constitutional amendment would:

  • Expand use of human embryos for any research permitted under federal law subject to the following limits: the embryos —
    • are created for fertility treatment purposes;
    • are not suitable for implantation or are in excess of clinical needs;
    • would be discarded unless used for research;
    • were donated by the person seeking fertility treatment.
  • Provide that stem cells cannot be taken from human embryos more than 14 days after cell division begins.
  • Prohibit any person from selling or purchasing human embryos for stem cell research.
  • Prohibit state and local laws that prevent,restrict or discourage stem cell research,future therapies and cures.[2]

In October, former President Bill Clinton came to Michigan to speak in favor of adopting Proposal 2.[3] The Michigan State Medical Society took a neutral position on this ballot measure, as well as on two other initiatives related to health care at its annual delegates meeting in early May 2008.[4]

It was not until after President Barack Obama reversed federal prohibitions on stem cell research in March 2009 that TechTown announced the opening of stem cell research lab in Detroit.[5] However, the opening has been delayed because TechTown has had trouble getting funds and State Senator Thomas George is attempting the weaken the amendment with legislation he has introduced.[6]

References

  1. ↑ Charlie Cain, The Detroit News, "Medical marijuana passes, stem cell proposal leads" November 4, 2008
  2. ↑ Statewide Ballot Proposals 2008 from Macomb County website
  3. ↑ Megha Satyanarayana, "Charges rampant on stem cell issue: Look into claims reveals facts behind stances of both sides" Detroit Free Press October 12, 2008. "The campaign ramped up Friday when proponents of Proposal 2 brought in former President Bill Clinton for a fund-raiser in Pontiac to pitch the potential benefits of the research."
  4. ↑ Detroit News: "Medical Society takes 'neutral' position on stem cell ballot initiative," May 4, 2008
  5. ↑ Peter Jurich, "Stem cell research lab to open in Detroit" The South End March 11–17, 2009. "Passing of Prop 2 in 2008 election, Obama's recent support of funding opens doors."
  6. ↑ Tom Zaworowski, "Lack of funding, politics stifle stem cell research facility plans" The South End July 15–21, 2009, page 1. "State Sen. Thomas George, R-Kalamazoo, has introduced a six-bill package that could undermine the initiative and restrict the use of embryos created in fertility clinics for stem cell research."

External links

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