Bill Frist and Stem Cells

The New York Times reports that Senator Bill Frist has decided to support legislation that expands federal financing for embryonic stem cell research.   According to the Times, Senator Frist stated,

"While human embryonic stem cell research is still at a very early stage, the limitations put in place in 2001 will, over time, slow our ability to bring potential new treatments for certain diseases," Mr. Frist says, according to a text of the speech provided by his office Thursday evening. "Therefore, I believe the president's policy should be modified."

Mr. Frist's move will undoubtedly change the political landscape in the debate over embryonic stem cell research, one of the thorniest moral issues to come before Congress. The chief House sponsor of the bill, Representative Michael N. Castle, Republican of Delaware, said, "His support is of huge significance."

The Castle-Degrette bill is here.  Before Senator Frist's announcement, the President has threatened to veto the bill.  [bm]