B’nai B’rith International is deeply concerned about the decision on August 23 by U.S. District Judge Royce C. Lamberth that would block federal funding for promising stem cell research. The federal court decision may cause confusion and troubling delays in research that could potentially change the lives of adults with degenerative illnesses and conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and spinal cord injuries.Additionally, this decision will prevent new funding awards for research and creates an untenable position for the research grants made under the new rules based on President Obama’s executive order.

B’nai B’rith is committed to supporting all ethical stem cell research leading to the understanding and cures of illnesses affecting millions of people worldwide. The current National Institutes of Health (NIH) guidelines were laboriously and careful designed, are consistent with federal law, and do not fund prohibited activities.

B’nai B’rith is hopeful that the suggestion of conflict involving the executive order and NIH guidelines versus the existing statute will be resolved as soon as possible.