"We can also improve the quality of health care in Michigan and give our economy a boost by removing the barriers to embryonic stem cell research, which could help thousands of people afflicted with life threatening and debilitating diseases.

"It will also energize our emerging life sciences industry in Michigan. Today, Michigan is at the back of the pack when it comes to allowing this important research.

"It's time to act on the issue. I can assure you, if the Legislature does not allow this research, the people will be taking it to the ballot."
Is she right? No.

*The truth is Michigan law does not ban human embryonic stem cell research.

*The truth is states are unlikely to see the huge revenues from embryonic stem cell research as hyped ("Stem Cell Reality Check," Capitol Weekly, 1/23/07).

*The truth is, human embryonic stem cell research has yet to produce a single cure, and therefore the hype surrounding it has been vastly overstated.

*The truth is, adult stem cell research holds much greater promise, as shown in the recent report about stem cells from amniotic fluid ("Amniotic fluid a promising stem cell source," San Francisco Chronicle, 1/8/07).

*The truth is, adult stem cells are already being used to cure or treat 72 conditions. (Please see Do No Harm.)

Baptists for Life supports research using adult stem cells because it does not involve the destruction of human embryos. BFL Executive Director, Tom Lothamer, challenges the governor with these words: "Since when does balancing the budget trump human life? Why should our state's economy be placed on the backs of unborn babies?"