The origins of human embryonic stem cell research policies in the US states

Stem cell research has emerged as a state-level science and technology policy issue in recent years in the USA, with some states supporting research in the field and others choosing to restrict it. In this paper, we systematically explore the factors that are associated with US states' adoptions of both supportive and restrictive stem cell policies. Our analysis identifies several factors, including partisan politics, existing morality policies, the strength of a state's scientific community and the policy environment in neighboring states, which influence the adoption of state stem cell policies. Our paper aims to advance the science and technology policy literature by providing insight into the factors that push states to adopt science policies when economic development goals conflict with ethical concerns.