California Stem Cell Loan Rules Coming Up Later This Month

The governing board of the $3 billion California stem cell agency has scheduled a brief, teleconference meeting for Oct. 22 during which the public or researchers can address any concerns they may have, including its priorities and spending.

The items on the agenda are routine, but as always there is an opportunity for the public to comment on any topic, whether it is on the agenda or not.  That includes how the agency plans to spend its last $800-$900 million.

There are plenty of teleconference locations spread around the state including two each in San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, La Jolla and Irvine. Other locations are in Davis, Sacramento, Redwood City, Oakland and Fresno. Specific addresses can be found on the agenda.

On tap at the meeting is formal approval of loan and other rules in the clinical stage program, changes in conference grants and appointments of new grant reviewers.  

The agency is also in the midst of finalizing changes in its strategic plan for the next few years. Its money for new awards is scheduled to run out in about four years. Although the changes are not expected to be adopted until December, the public can speak directly to the board on the matter at Oct. 22 meeting. 

For more on the choices facing the agency over the next few years, see here, here, here and here.