PI Action alerts & updates ... 1998

AIDS Drug Assistance Program Budget in Trouble

Call or email your U.S. Senators and urge highest
increases for ADAP and all HIV/AIDS Programs

August 27, 1998 — Next week, the Senate Labor/Health and Human Services Appropriations Subcommittee will consider Fiscal Year 1999 funding levels for HIV/AIDS research, care/treatment, and prevention programs. There is concern that the Subcommittee may recommend a smaller increase for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) than the $100 million increase supported by the House Appropriations Committee. ADAP is a federally-funded program, run by the states, that provides HIV/AIDS treatment to low-income individuals with no or inadequate prescription drug coverage. Many states also contribute funds to the program.

Many of these programs already have waiting lists because of inadequate funding.

Experts have determined that a $175 million increase is needed to prevent further restrictions and funding shortfalls. An increase below $100 million could have a devastating effect on state ADAPS.

Your calls and emails are needed to ensure adequate funding for ADAP and other HIV/AIDS programs!

Action Needed:
Call or email your two U.S. Senators by September 1 with the following message:

Sample Phone/Email Message

“I urge Senator _______________________ to support a $175 million increase for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program for Fiscal Year 1999. I also urge him/her to support the highest possible increases for all HIV/AIDS programs.”

In your communication with your elected officials, try to be as personal as possible. If you or someone you care about depends on ADAP for treatment, or if your state ADAP is currently having financial difficulties, be sure to let them know. You can also discuss how other HIV/AIDS programs have made a difference in your life or that of someone you know.

Contact information:
You can reach your Senators through the Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121. You can find contact information for all U.S. Senators, including email addresses, on Project Inform’s website. Another good resource for contacting your elected officials is www.capweb.net.