Stem Cell Therapy

One of the most promising treatments in medicine is the use of stem cells from adults, and cord blood after birth.  My law set up a “Stem Cell Study Commission,” which I chair.  This Commission has recommended the use of adult stem cells for ethical and FDA approved therapies, and primarily to protect first responders.

Gardasil Vaccine

I opposed mandatory vaccination requirements for inoculating 9-11 year olds with Merck Company’s “Guardasil” because there is no track record of long term use on side effects or future reproductive complications that would affect young women as they grow up.  The American Medical Association also opposed mandated Guardisil shots.  Unfortunately the legislature passed this measure.  I asked the Governor to include a broad opt-out provision to the bill, which he did, and which I supported.

I attempted to amend the measure to provide that if the drug is shown to cause birth defects or future reproductive impairments, that the State of Virginia would accept liability for mandating the vaccination.  Unfortunately, this amendment was rejected.  Big Pharma’s heavy lobbying won on this measure.  Also, Governor Kaine awarded Merck $800,000 in tax money to begin manufacturing the Guardasil Vaccine at a new plant in Virginia.