To date, 10 states have appropriated $4 billion for stem cell research and regenerative medicine. They have outpaced the federal government and the National Institutes of Health in funding this research by astronomical percentages. Discussion on this panel will center on the fact that each state follows slightly different scientific and ethical guidelines for funding stem cell research and regenerative medicine. The session will bring together representative experts to discuss how this paradigm shift will change the synergy between biotechnology firms, state governments and the federal government.

Objective1:Inform participants of the status of state-sponsored stem cell research funding and discuss the Interstate Alliance on Stem Cell Research as an organization created to minimize barriers among state initiatives.

Objective2:Provide an overview of the patent and regulatory framework affecting stem cell research in the states and nationally.

Objective3:Explore various scenarios toward retention or loss of leadersip roles after the next presidential election.