The International Society for Stem Cell Research (ISSCR) is a global nonprofit organization that brings together scientists, ethicists, students, and business leaders to improve the standards of stem cell science. ISSCR evaluates how stem cell science can be applied and used to advance human health. During the 2024 ISSCR Congressional Day, leaders from the ISSCR visited the Congress in Washington, D.C., to update legislators and their health policy personnel regarding the potential and progress of stem cell research. The delegation, which consisted of 16 ISSCR members and staff from 15 states and the District of Columbia, met in March to brief policymakers on three key issues.

Congress was requested to disagree with policy riders that limit research with human fetal tissue in both FY2024 and FY2025 spending bills. In addition, Congress was requested to approve a GAO (Government Accountability Office) report to analyze whether the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and FTC (Federal Trade Commission) regulatory frameworks and policies have been successful in blocking stem cell clinics from marketing unapproved stem cell treatments. Finally, a request was made to Congress to assign additional funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) for the fiscal year 2025 (FY2025).

The ISSCR is aware that consistent advocacy generates positive outcomes, and has focused on strengthening relationships with members of Congress and key committee members. In addition, the society also focuses on offices where both academic and industry stem cell research is prevalent, increasing ISSCR’s chances of achieving positive results.