Press room ... 2002 archive

Project Inform Applauds
Governor's Proposed HIV/AIDS Budget

January 10, 2002

San Francisco—Project Inform expressed its strong appreciation today for Governor Davis' proposed HIV/AIDS budget for Fiscal Year 2002-03. Despite projected budget deficits, the proposal calls for $20 million in new state funding for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) and $2 million for the diagnostic assay program. ADAP provides HIV drugs to low-income people who lack adequate health insurance. The diagnostic assay program provides reimbursement for those who couldn't otherwise afford it for tests that assist physicians and patients in making better HIV treatment decisions.

"With this budget proposal, Governor Davis has demonstrated a strong commitment to providing life-prolonging treatment to people with HIV/AIDS" said Anne Donnelly, Public Policy Director. "Every year the California State Legislature has demonstrated tremendous support for ADAP. We look forward to working with the Governor, the Administration, the Legislature and other HIV/AIDS advocates to continue to ensure adequate funding for this program."

The Governor has also provided $2M for the diagnostic assay program. In addition to helping people make more effective treatment decisions, this program helps ensure the most cost-effective utilization of ADAP benefits.

While applauding the funding of ADAP and the assay program, Project Inform noted that the Governor's proposal did not restore $4 million in HIV prevention funding that was cut from last year's budget. In light of rising HIV infections, Project Inform and other advocates hope that the Governor and the Legislature will consider supporting the restoration of prevention funding during the budget process. In addition, Project Inform is hopeful that the Governor and the Legislature will provide adequate funding for all vital California health programs.

For more information about Project Inform's state HIV/AIDS advocacy agenda, contact Anne Donnelly at 415-558-8669, x208.