LANSING – A ballot question committee to put a proposal allowing research in Michigan using embryonic stem cells on the November ballot has filed with the Department of State, but a spokesperson said there is no decision yet on whether to pursue a ballot initiative.

Marcia Baum of Michigan Citizens for Stem Cell Research and Cures said officials of the ballot committee – called the Stem Cell Research B.Q.C., which is separate from Michigan Citizens – are reviewing all the factors involved in putting together a ballot question, including whether to pursue the issue at all, how much to spend on a campaign, and whether to pursue an initiated act or a constitutional amendment.

But the group also hopes some action can be taken in the Legislature to lift the ban now in place on using embryonic stem cells in research.

Michigan has one of the most stringent bans in the U.S. on the use of embryonic stem cells in research. There is no bar on the use of adult stem cells in research in the state.

The group is also mindful the deadlines it would face in getting an issue on the ballot, with all signatures having to be collected in 180 days, Baum said.

The group actually filed with the Department of State last week.

Sr. Monica Kostielney, president of the Michigan Catholic Conference, issued a press release saying to “protect human life at its most vulnerable stage, any proposal, legislative or ballot-related, must be defeated.”

The ballot committee filed with the state just a few days after the Catholic Conference launched a major statewide effort to communicate its view on stem cells.

Rep. Andy Meisner (D-Ferndale) said he continues to hope HB 4616 which he sponsored to allow embryonic stem cell research will get a hearing and pass the Legislature. But he added a petition drive may be needed and groups which support the research will consider that option.

“There is a growing statewide coalition of patients and advocacy groups who feel passionately about the need for this change in Michigan law,” he said.

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