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HB 4788

Relating to prohibiting public and private institutions of higher education from accepting federal funding for embryonic or fetal stem cell research.

89th Legislature (2025) Introduced by Janis Holt and 2 co-sponsors

Texas bill would bar public and private universities from accepting federal funding for embryonic or fetal stem cell research, limiting institutional research capacity and autonomy.

Referred to Higher Education
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Bill Summary · HB 4788

Legislative bill overview

HB 4788 would prohibit both public and private institutions of higher education in Texas from accepting federal funding for embryonic or fetal stem cell research. The bill applies to any institution receiving state funding or operating under state authorization, creating a blanket restriction on a specific research category regardless of federal allowance.

Why is this important

This legislation directly impacts Texas's research competitiveness and institutional autonomy. Universities conduct federally-funded stem cell research that some view as ethically problematic while others consider scientifically valuable; restricting it could affect recruitment of researchers, federal grant revenue, and partnerships with other institutions. The bill also raises questions about state versus federal regulatory authority over research standards.

Potential points of contention

  • Scientific research limitations: Embryonic stem cell research has produced advances in understanding development and treating diseases; restricting funding could slow progress on conditions like Parkinson's and diabetes, though alternative stem cell research methods exist
  • Institutional autonomy vs. state control: Requiring private institutions to refuse federal funds sets a precedent for state government dictating research parameters at non-state entities
  • Federal-state conflict: Federal agencies already fund this research under established guidelines; the bill creates a workaround that may conflict with federal law or research agreements institutions have made

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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