FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, September 12, 2005
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Governor Counters Blagojevich Letter
Reinforces Ongoing Commitment to Life Sciences
JEFFERSON CITY—In a letter addressed to life science companies, Gov. Matt Blunt today reiterated Missouri’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the research and the life sciences industries in our state. The letter is in response to implications from Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich.
"I wanted to personally thank you for the excellent work you are doing in Missouri and also reassure you that the Illinois Governor’s allegations are unfounded," Blunt’s letter says. "One of my top priorities as Governor of Missouri is to grow our economy and no sector of our economy is as ripe for growth as the life sciences. Accordingly I am wholly committed to ensuring that Missouri maintains an environment that not only fosters but also attracts responsible and innovative scientific research."
The letter points out that Missouri’s life science business climate is flourishing. According to the Department of Economic Development, the life sciences contribute $24 billion to Missouri’s economy annually.
Some of the most magnificent research facilities in the world are housed in Missouri. Washington University, the Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, the Stowers Institute for Medical Research and the University of Missouri are just some of the many institutions that contribute to place Missouri at the forefront in all three segments of the life sciences: human health, veterinary medicine and plant sciences.
The recently created Governor’s Advisory Council for Plant Biotechnology is another advocate to enhance an environment that encourages biotechnology and life sciences. Significant reform and growth in our economy overall will also continue to build the world class life sciences environment in our state.
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View copy of Gov. Blunt's letter to Gov. Blagojevich