PI Action alerts & updates ... 1997

Project Inform Denounces
Passage of Anti-Needle Exchange Legislation

Project Inform, a leading national HIV/AIDS treatment and research advocacy organization, denounced the passage of an amendment to the House Labor/HHS Appropriations Bill which bans federal funding for needle exchange programs. The amendment rescinds the Secretary of Health and Human Services’ authority to authorize federal funding for such programs if she determines that they are proven to reduce HIV infections and do not lead to increased drug use. Numerous studies, including those sponsored by the federal government, have made such declarations, but the current Secretary, Donna Shalala, has yet to change federal policy.

“Federal needle exchange policy is a public health decision—not a political one—and must remain with the Secretary of Health and Human Services”, stated Anne Donnelly, public policy director. “One-third of all AIDS cases tracked by the CDC are linked to intravenous drug use. By passing this amendment, the House of Representatives has placed a major roadblock in preventing the spread of HIV.”

Project Inform calls on the House/Senate conference committee to delete the House language in the final Labor/HHS Appropriations bill. Project Inform also urges the Clinton Administration to convey its support for maintaining authority over this decision and to move forward by making the necessary declaration to release the use of federal funds for needle exchange programs.