Illinois Comptroller Dan Hynes Thursday urged Illinois lawmakers to include funding for embryonic stem cell research in any Fiscal 2008 budget they develop to counter the ongoing efforts by President George Bush to stifle progress in the life-saving research.

"While the President continues to frustrate and stifle progress on scientific research that could ultimately save millions of lives and overcome diseases that currently have no cure, Illinois lawmakers need to stand tall and continue to support and provide long-term funding for embryonic stem cell research," Hynes said. "Their constituents support it and they should make it a priority in budget negotiations."

President Bush late Wednesday vetoed federal legislation that would have eased restrictions on federal funding of embryonic stem cell research, the second year in a row he has taken such action.

Hynes said the President should not continue to ignore the will of the American people and called his actions "misguided." "Now, more than ever, the state has a responsibility to help restore hope and provide funding for all types of ethical research, including embryonic stem cell research."

At Hynes' urging, Illinois created the Illinois Regenerative Medicine Institute and has provided $15 million during the last two years for stem cell research. Hynes believes the state needs to make a greater commitment to the science. He is advocating long-term funding totaling $100 million during the next few years.

"Illinois is home to world-class researchers and world-class medical facilities, universities and research centers. We need to help them maintain and advance their efforts and continue to provide the hope for a cure that so many people are desperately seeking for family members and for themselves," Hynes said.

Hynes also urged Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich to sign Senate Bill 4, which supports the use of embryonic stem cell research and the IRMI. The legislation received strong support in the Legislature this spring.