WASHINGTON, March 9 (UPI) -- Rescinding money limits on embryonic stem cell research shows President Obama's commitment to sound science over ideology, the U.S. energy secretary said.
"One of the reasons I joined President Obama's Cabinet was his commitment to making decisions on the basis of sound science rather than ideology -- a commitment he demonstrated again today with his thoughtful, compassionate decision to allow ethical stem cell research to go forward," Secretary Steven Chu said Monday after Obama signed the executive order.
The executive order will overturn a restriction former President George W. Bush enacted that limited federal funding to 21 cell lines already in existence when he signed the order. Some scientists believe embryonic stem cells could provide tissue to replace defective organs or cells because embryonic stem cells can morph into any type of cell present in the body.
"I applaud the president's decision to move forward with this research under rigorous ethical safeguards that respect the strongly held beliefs people on both sides can have over this issue," Chu said.
When signing the order, Obama made it clear his commitment to decisions -- beyond embryonic stem cells -- is based on science, not personal beliefs, said Chu, who attended signing ceremony.
"From energy to environmental protection to healthcare reform," Chu said. "Americans will be well served by this approach."
Also attending the ceremony were scientists and researchers involved in stem cell research, legislators and representatives of healthcare facilities and advocacy groups.
