Board of Regents meeting may spark early stem cell research talk

Embryonic stem cell research wiggled its way onto the University of Nebraska Board of Regents meeting agenda. 

The board isn't expected to act on the issue at its Friday meeting; however, Chairman Kent Schroeder announced in a release that the board plans to set aside time for public comment on stem cell research. 

"We are a land-grant institution," said Regent Tim Clare. "We have a duty to serve the people of Nebraska. That's our call. As such, we have a duty to take into consideration what the public point of view is and give the public the opportunity to weigh in on how it views this issue and other issues."

Last spring, President Obama signed an executive order relaxing federal guidelines to allow embryonic stem cell research. 

The change in federal law caused the board to review the University of Nebraska's policy on stem cell research. 

"It's an important issue for the University of Nebraska," Clare said. "The importance is we have a change in the federal law, and it's important for the regents to determine current attitudes and apply the law to how our policy is changed." 

Supporters of stem cell research stress its potential to treat diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, while some groups who object to the research believe it's morally wrong to destroy an embryo.

The debate over stem cell research has the potential to become heated. 

"On this issue, yeah, we've seen that consistently," said Regent Chuck Hassebrook. "(The regents) all know what to expect. People feel strongly about the issue, but the board needs to step back and do what we believe is right."

While Friday's meeting will allow for public comment, Regent Bob Phares said he is hoping board members will also have a chance to weigh in.

"I don't think there will be any proposed actions, but I would think it would be an opportunity for board members to speak on the issue," Phares said. 

Besides public testimony, Friday's agenda also includes updates on Innovation Campus and the state budget. 

"Innovation Campus is probably the one thing people are really looking forward to," Phares said. "I'm looking forward to hearing how it's progressing. They've been working hard and have done a good job so far. "

Earlier this month, Gov. Dave Heineman called a special session of the state legislature to rethink the state's budget. At the Friday meeting, regents will hear from NU President J.B. Milliken and Chris Kabourek, assistant vice president and director of the budget for NU, on how the university might be affected by changes in the state's budget. 

"Everybody's anticipating an adverse effect," Phares said. "We've already advised the universities to tighten up some belts in a more efficient fashion, maybe not filling certain positions. We're all concerned."

On Friday the NU Board of Regents will also:

    * Hear a proposal for a University of Nebraska Medical Center Eye Institute Facility

    * Hear a report on NU's enrollment

    * Consider approving funding of nearly $1.7 million through bonds for improvements to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Nebraska Unions, the University Health Center and University Housing facilities

    * Consider approving funding of nearly $1.2 million through bonds for improving UNL Parking property and equipment

Courtneypitts@dailynebraskan.com