Pro-Life News

Calif. OKs Prop 71

Hollywood Boosts Stem-Cell Measure in California
LOS ANGELES -- The campaign behind California's Proposition 71, the ballot initiative to authorize up to $3 billion for stem-cell research in the state, got a big boost through endorsements from such stars as Brad Pitt and Michael J. Fox, not to mention the support of Gov. Arnold Schwarzengger, the American Lung Assn. and the Christopher Reeve Paralysis Foundation. But the initiative, which appeared to be headed for approval late Tuesday, has long had the behind-the-scenes support of Hollywood heavyweights. Producers Lucy Fisher and Douglas Wick, the husband-and-wife principals of Red Wagon Entertainment, and director Jerry Zucker and wife Janet, were among the early supporters whose backing ensured that the state's voters had the opportunity to weigh in on the issue.

Proposition 71 Wins Decisive Victory
Prop 71 won't increase or create any taxes. It authorizes tax-free state bonds that will provide an average of $295 million per year over ten years to support stem cell research at California's universities, medical schools and research facilities. These bonds will be self-financing during the first five years, so there's no cost to the state's general fund during this period of economic recovery.

Posted by Editor at November 3, 2004 07:08 AM