The News & Record opined Aug. 13 that Rep. Earl Jones' proposal for stem cell research in North Carolina has potential and is acceptable. However, it has yet to be determined that this idea is money well spent. For example, in the same News & Record, the local section highlighted the unfortunate issue of high infant mortality in North Carolina and in Guilford County. Yes, this is a major health concern and should get undivided attention by our legislators, but at a cursory glance there appears to be a larger concern about stem cell research.

The article on infant mortality indicates that North Carolina's health system has been poorly funded, which has yielded one of the highest infant mortality rates in the United States. Therefore, it is self-evident where state monies should be allocated to preserve and maintain life. Infant mortality intervention is a legitimate health and wellness concern and should benefit from significant state financial allocation.

It is obvious to me that the proposal to finance stem cell research in a state that has such infant mortality issues should inspire serious contemplation about who and what is important. It appears to send mixed signals that a state is more concerned with lab work and research than solid intervention in the implementation of health care for its citizenry.

Brian Kluttz
Greensboro