Representative Andre Jacque (R-De Pere) said last week that he plans to reintroduce legislation that would limit the use of fetal tissue in scientific research. Similar legislation was introduced, but did not pass, last session. The proposed bill could seriously hinder research on campus and jeopardize UW-Madison’s position as an international leader in stem cell research.
PROFS strongly opposed the legislation last session and will register its opposition when the bill is formally introduced this session. The proposed bill text is here.
Jacque, a UW-Madison graduate, is currently soliciting cosponsors for his proposal. Last year a majority of Assembly members signed on to the legislation. PROFS will continue to monitor the status of the proposal and let faculty know when a public hearing on the bill is scheduled.