A long overdue coalition designed to educate Michiganians on the merits of stem cell research kicked off its work this week — a welcome development on a topic that’s too often seen in black and white terms.

Michigan Citizens for Stem Cell Research & Cures aims to facilitate a needed conversation about the nuances of stem cell research — and its health and economic benefits — in a state that has some of the most scientifically backward and restrictive laws in the country.

Stem cell research offers the potential of medical advances in fighting deadly diseases, yet Michigan’s Legislature has thwarted that potential due to pressure by pro-life activists. The public debate has been painted in overly simplistic terms.

Michigan can find a better way — and the citizens’ group can play a vital part in building awareness and consensus around this issue.

Already dozens of volunteers have signed up for the coalition’s “action teams” to speak to civic groups. Many are from juvenile diabetes, breast cancer and other groups that are passionate about stem cell research’s potential to help them, coalition Executive Director Marica Baum says.

State legislators should do what’s best for them — and best for Michigan — and change state law, which makes it a felony to conduct embryonic stem cell research, and instead align Michigan’s policy more closely with federal policy.

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