Congress to Drastically Cut New Jersey’s HIV/AIDS Funding

The Ryan White Act has been a critical tool for states across the country to get funds to provide assistance to residents affected with HIV/AIDS. This year the Administration and Majority in Congress proposed drastic cuts to HIV/AIDS funding that will significantly hurt New Jersey’s HIV/AIDS services.  I fought against these cuts because, instead of making responsible choices that provide adequate funding for our nation’s most vulnerable citizens, they have chosen tax cuts for the ultra-rich.  Unfortunately, the House recently passed the Ryan White Treatment Modernization Act of 2006, which will potentially cut millions of dollars of vital funding for New Jersey and other states.  It is now upon the Senate to act.  I am working with a bipartisan group of Representatives and Senators to oppose these tragic cuts and restore needed funding for this critical care.

The funds authorized under the Ryan White Act are used to provide life sustaining services to HIV/AIDS affected individuals, reduce costs for medical care, and improve their quality of life.  Like other diseases, HIV/AIDS disproportionately affects the poor, racial and ethnic minorities, and other vulnerable populations.  New Jersey currently ranks 5th in the nation in HIV and AIDS cases, 1st in the number of women, and 3rd in pediatric cases.  Our state has also consistently been at the forefront of HIV/AIDS treatment, education, and prevention.

It is clear that Ryan White funding is vital for the citizens of New Jersey, and yet this Congress continues to act irresponsibly.  We must provide adequate HIV/AIDS funds to those states that have the most need.  I will continue my fight to protect the vital programs and funding that serve our nation’s most vulnerable populations. 

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