Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act of 2006

RYAN WHITE HIV/AIDS TREATMENT MODERNIZATION ACT OF 2006 -- (House of Representatives - September 28, 2006)

Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I must reluctantly rise in opposition to H.R. 6143.

As the Co-chair of the Congressional Black Caucus Global AIDS Taskforce, I have consistently fought for more funding for our HIV/AIDS programs.

Along with my colleagues in the CBC, we have helped lead efforts to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in the African American community, and last year the House passed my resolution supporting Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.

I have also tried to do my part to encourage wider testing for HIV, introducing several resolutions on the subject, and just yesterday by getting tested with my colleagues in the CBC.

With my colleagues I have also worked to dramatically scale up U.S. foreign assistance on HIV/AIDS, provide the framework for the creation of the Global Fund, and focus assistance on orphans vulnerable to this disease.

Unfortunately today I must stand against this bill because it significantly cuts HIV/AIDS funding in my district in Alameda County. In its current form, this bill will force the consolidation and closure of AIDS service organizations who are on the front lines in fighting this disease.

I do believe there are some strengths to this bill. In particular the inclusion of the Minority AIDS Initiative--an initiative created through the leadership of my colleague Maxine Waters, the CBC, and President Clinton--should be applauded.

But without changes to the current formulas, or increased appropriations to fund these programs, I cannot support this bill in its current form.

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