Romney threatens veto of stem-cell measure

BOSTON — Despite a veto threat from the governor, the state Senate overwhelmingly approved a bill Wednesday to give scientists more freedom to conduct embryonic stem-cell research in Massachusetts.

The 35-2 vote came after less than two hours of debate, on the same day Gov. Mitt Romney launched a statewide radio campaign to urge the bill's defeat.

Senate passage was widely expected; the Senate approved similar legislation in past years, only to see it stall in the House.

House Democratic leaders said they believe they have the votes this time to approve the bill but are unsure if they have the two-thirds majority needed to override a certain veto.

The measure would allow scientists to create cloned embryos and extract their stem cells for research into the treatment and cure of diabetes, Parkinson's disease, spinal cord injuries and other conditions. Removing the stem cells destroys the embryos.

Under state law, scientists interested in conducting stem-cell research first need the approval of the local district attorney. The bill would remove that requirement, give the state Health Department some regulatory controls and ban cloning for reproductive purposes. Reproductive cloning is already banned under federal law.

"Cloning would mean creating new human life, new embryos, just for experimentation," Romney said in the 60-second radio ad paid for by his political committee. "If, like me, you support stem cell research but you oppose cloning human embryos, please tell your legislator. Help me oppose the radical cloning bill now on Beacon Hill."

Romney's opposition to the bill puts him at odds with some of the top university and research facilities in Massachusetts, including the newly formed Harvard Stem Cell Institute, created specifically to study the possibilities of stem cells.

"That Gov. Romney would actually lock up those scientists whose life's work is to cure diabetes or Parkinson's disease is amazing," said Sen. Cynthia Creem, a Democrat.

Romney and some opponents of embryonic stem cell research say they support research using adult stem cells or leftover frozen embryos from fertility clinics, but oppose the creation of new embryos.

Embryonic stem cells are derived from human embryos that are typically no more than a few days old. Some researchers see almost unlimited potential in those cells, which go on to develop into every kind of cell in the body, including liver cells and muscle.

With approval in the Senate, all eyes were on the House. The departure of former House Speaker Thomas Finneran, an opponent of stem cell research, had supporters optimistic about getting the measure through that chamber.