Frist reverses position on stem cell research

Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist (R-Tenn.) reversed his position on funding for research on embryonic stem cell research in a speech to lawmakers today. The news that Frist is now saying he supports legislation which would end on a moratorium on funding passed in 2001 is a front page story in newspapers across the country. Analysts say the Senate majority leader's support is likely to make a "crucial difference" in the political battle over the bill, creating political cover for Republicans who want to support funding. The former heart and lung transplant surgeon said that while he is uncomfortable with some aspects of the bill, allowing the moratorium to remain in place would slow crucial research. Biotech stocks are reportedly rising on word of this potentially major development.

- see this story from The New York Times

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