ABC7 KGO-TV SF
There continues to be enormous controversy over the committee that oversees how all that money will be spent on the state’s stem-cell program, and who gets to sit on that committee.
The five-member committee met for the first time today to review a financial audit of the Stem Cell Institute.
However, a watchdog group is calling for the resignation of committee member John Hein. Hein is the former lobbyist for the California Teachers Association. He was appointed by Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez.
Proposition 71 spells out that committee members shall have medical backgrounds and knowledge of relevant financial matters.
John Simpson, Foundation for Taxpayer & Consumer Rights: “The voters enacted law and they expect the law to be followed as they enacted it, and while he may be a wonderful gentleman, he clearly has no medical background and should step down.”
Hein turned down an on-camera interview. However, he acknowledged he has no medical background. And he said he pointed that out to Assembly Speaker Nunez.
A spokesman for Nunez says he stands by the appointment and believes Hein’s experience in health care issues and managing health care contracts qualifies him.
State Controller Steve Westly will seek a legal opinion of Hein’s appointment.
Steve Westly, (D) State Controller: “Mr. Hein certainly has a deep financial background, and we welcome him on the committee. We will ask him to talk with the attorney general’s representative to make sure his being part of this is in compliance with the law.”
The Financial Accountability Committee reviewed an auditor’s report. It also listened to how the Stem Cell Institute is making sure every dollar spent is closely monitored.
Bob Klein, Citizens’ Oversight Committee Chairman: “Every single expenditure we make… the check is cut not by us, but by the controller’s office after reviewing and approving documentation.”
