Attorney General's News Release

January 23, 2009

Attorney General Koster hails stem cell decision by FDA

Jefferson City, Mo. -- Attorney General Chris Koster today released the following statement on the federal Food and Drug Administration's decision to allow testing using human embryonic stem cells:

"This is a good day for Missouri and our great research institutions like the University of Missouri, Washington University and the Stowers Institute. But more importantly, it is a day of hope for all those who suffer from diseases that stem cell research might someday cure.

"As the son of a man who battled diabetes, I believe stem cell research is an important channel to fight disease. As Attorney General I will support innovation and uphold the laws of the land.

"When President Obama took the oath of office on Tuesday, he said 'We will restore science to its rightful place.' I am gratified that just days later, the FDA changed course and finally decided to allow clinical testing using stem cells."