The Politics of Human-Embryo Research — Avoiding Ethical Gridlock

Abstract

In late January 1996, President Bill Clinton signed a continuing resolution to keep the government open. Among other things, the resolution prohibits the use of federal funds for research on human embryos.¹ This prohibition, which continues until September 30, the end of the current fiscal year, would become permanent if Congress reaffirms it and the President concurs.¹ Compromise language to limit the prohibition to embryos created expressly for research purposes, but permitting federally funded research on “spare” embryos (those created for procreation but no longer needed) was defeated.² A much stronger case can be made for using spare embryos in . . .