Hollow rhetoric wins out

Tulsa (Okla.) World: Not surprisingly, the state House approved by a whopping 86-8 margin a measure that prohibits stem cell research in Oklahoma.

Also of no surprise were the self-congratulatory claims that the measure is all about valuing life. But in straining their arms to pat themselves on the back, the lawmakers backing the ban neglected to mention that the embryos they are so valiantly trying to protect will be destroyed anyway. They also failed to point out that before they’re ultimately destroyed, these embryos could play a valuable role in alleviating the suffering of an untold number of human beings.

House Bill 1442 would make it a misdemeanor to conduct embryonic stem cell research and also would prohibit the buying, selling or transferring of embryos for research.

As would be expected, the majority voting for the stem cell research ban ignored the scientific aspects of the issue and instead focused on the surefire political aspect.

“Oklahoma has decided to be a pro-life state,” said Rep. Mike Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City. “We want to defend unborn children at every opportunity.”

But as noted, these embryos aren’t being protected — most, if not all, are destined to be destroyed.

Scientific reality

Supporters of the ban argued that adult stem cell research holds as much promise and has already resulted in cures and treatments. But what they don’t mention is that adult stem cells don’t have the potential that embryonic stem cells have.

Given the political climate in the state now, it’s almost assured this ban will become law. The message will be sent that Oklahoma’s leaders care more about hollow rhetoric than joining the effort to cure disease and save lives.