PI Action alerts & updates ... 1998

Oppose Congressional Efforts to Permanently Ban
Federal Funding for Needle Exchange Programs

On April 20, Secretary of Health and Human Services Donna Shalala made her long awaited declaration on federal funding for needle exchange programs. The Secretary announced that there is clear scientific evidence that needle exchange programs reduce the spread of HIV and do not increase illegal drug use. However, the Clinton Administration will continue the ban on using federal funds for these lifesaving programs.

In the days following this disappointing announcement, some members of Congress began acting to legislate a permanent ban on federal funding for needle exchange programs. This would mean that only Congress, not the Secretary of Health and Human Services, could release the funds. Such a law would make it extremely difficult to ever obtain federal dollars for needle exchange programs.

This legislation is moving quickly, as some representatives wish to use the issue to win election year points. Your calls to your U.S. Representative, two U.S. Senators, and President Clinton are needed to ensure that the authority for releasing federal funds remains with public health experts and not politicians!

Action Needed:
Call your U.S. Representative and two U.S. Senators immediately with the following message:

Sample Phone Message:

“I urge Representative/Senator _______________ to vote against any measure that codifies the ban on federal funding for needle exchange programs. This is a public health issue and must not be held hostage by politics.”

You can reach your representatives by calling the Congressional switchboard at 202-225-3121. Ask to be connected to your U.S. Representative/Senators.

Call the White House at 202-456-1414 with the following message:

Sample Phone Message:

“I am outraged by the Clinton Administration’s decision not to release federal funds for needle exchange programs. The President should reverse this decision and make these funds available immediately. At a minimum, the President must veto any legislation that attempts to make this ban permanent.”