California’s $3 billion initiative to promote stem-cell research could lure scientists and biotechnology companies to the West Coast, possibly chipping away at Delaware’s efforts to sell the First State as a biotech haven. The threat has led New Jersey’s acting governor, Richard Codey, to suggest that his state, along with Delaware and Pennsylvania, collaborate on a “biotech corridor” to promote stem-cell research in this region. But legislative uncertainties and tight government finances could derail that idea before it gets started. Meanwhile, Codey took a unilateral step last week to counter the threat from California, proposing that New Jersey spend $380 million over seven years to promote stem-cell research. Those moves could leave tiny Delaware in a difficult competitive position.
