House Passes HIV-AIDS Legislation
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn today released the following statement regarding passage of H.R. 5501, the Tom Lantos and Henry Hyde United States Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria Reauthorization Act of 2008.
“Today, the House passed a measure that will send vital aid and medical assistance to countries fighting high incidences of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria. America has an important role to play in helping our global neighbors combat and eradicate life-threatening illnesses and extending goodwill around the globe.
“H.R. 5501 increases the authorization for U.S. contributions to the Global AIDS Fund from $1 billion to $2 billion. This expansive humanitarian initiative also sets targets to prevent 12 million new HIV/AIDS infections and provide care for 12 million people living with HIV/AIDS, including 5 million orphans. Furthermore, this legislation authorizes $9 billion in funding to combat tuberculosis and malaria.
“Helping to prevent the spread of infectious diseases around the world is a moral responsibility of the United States government and one which this New Direction Congress takes very seriously. This Congress will continue to solidify strong diplomatic ties with our allies by providing them with the resources they need to treat and prevent the proliferating incidence of HIV/AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.”
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