AMSNY Applauds Governor's Commitment to New York's Stem Cell Program

NEW YORK, NY (02/04/2011)(readMedia)-- The Associated Medical Schools of New York (AMSNY) applauded Governor Cuomo for his support of the state's Stem Cell Program in his proposed 2011-12 Executive Budget.

"In his budget message to the Legislature, Governor Cuomo said one of his top priorities is to get the economy running again by creating good jobs and investing in innovation," said Jo Wiederhorn, AMSNY president and chief executive officer. "New York's stem cell program is a perfect example of an initiative that is accomplishing this, and more. In addition to supporting ground-breaking stem cell research projects, the state's program has been a tool for economic development by creating hundreds of jobs in the first two years of the program, and it is attracting world-renowned researchers and scientists to New York.

"The governor's dedication to the state's Stem Cell Program is significant as it is a clear signal that he is following through on his commitments and convictions," said Ms. Wiederhorn. "New York's funding thus far has positioned it as a leader in stem cell research. We call on the Legislature to enact the governor's proposal and allow New York's scientists and researchers to continue working towards ground-breaking cures to life threatening and chronic illnesses."

***

The Associated Medical Schools of New York (AMSNY) is a consortium of the 16 public and private medical schools throughout New York State. The AMSNY mission is to support quality health care in New York State through the continual strengthening of medical education, medical care and medical research. The combined total of New York's medical schools economic impact equals more than $85.6 billion. This means $1 in every $13 in the New York economy is related to AMSNY medical schools and their primary hospital affiliates. For more information on AMSNY, please visit www.amsny.org.

-30-