Denver, CO – On Tuesday the U.S House of Representative passed HR 810, the Stem Cell Research Enhancement Act. The bill passed by a vote of 238 to 194. Congresswoman Diana DeGette from Colorado’s First Congressional District authored this bill.

Since 2001 DeGette has been working to expand federal support for stem cell research. President Bush imposed strict limitations on stem cell lines that are eligible for funding.

The basis of HR 810 is to open up eligible stem cell lines for funding in an ethical and legal manner. The legislation allows for donated embryos determined to be in excess to be used in federally funded research programs.

"Stem cell research is used to find cures to diseases that affect millions of Americans," said Pat Waak, Chair of the Colorado Democratic Party. "Democrats are fighting to ensure that we are doing everything we can to protect our family, friends and neighbors from life threatening diseases."

DeGette along with Congressman Mike Castle (R-DE) first wrote this bill in 2004. When it was reintroduced this year it garnered over 200 cosponsors. This is evidence that this issue garners bipartisan support.

"This is not a partisan issue because the concern to save lives and ensure good health is an important issue for everyone," said Joelle Martinez, Communications Director of the Colorado Democratic Party. "Recently my grandfather was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and if there is possibility of helping future patients of Alzheimer’s I am a solid supporter."

While Congress has taken the first step in making this legislation permanent, it is now up to President Bush to sign HR 810 into law.