In the news ... 2007

PI ACTION ALERT:
Urge Your Senators to Support Increases
for Ryan White Program

June 15, 2007

Last week, the House Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee voted to increase funding for some parts of the Ryan White Program in the Fiscal Year 2008 appropriations bill. While these increases are badly needed, they fall well short of what is needed for Ryan White to meet the needs of those who depend on the program for their care and treatment. You can details about these increases here.

Also, the Subcommittee failed to increase funding for other parts of Ryan White, such as Part D/Title IV, which pays for important services targeting women, children, youth, and families. All parts of the Ryan White Program must be adequately funded for it to be the real safety net for people who have no other way of getting these services.

The Senate Labor-HHS Subcommittee is expected to vote on its version of the bill on Tuesday, June 19th. This is a crucial opportunity to get higher increases for Ryan White and help people get the care and treatment they need!

How you can help:
Before Tuesday, June 19th, call your two U.S. Senators in their Washington, DC offices. Ask to speak to the staffperson who handles HIV and health care issues. Whether you speak to this person live or leave a message, tell him/her:

"My name is _________________ and I live in City/State. I urge Senator ______________ to support full funding for all parts of the Ryan White Program in the Fiscal Year 2008 appropriations bill. The program can't support all those who qualify for services and people are going without essential HIV care. These increases are badly needed to help make sure low-income people with HIV/AIDS can remain healthy and productive. I would like the Senator to convey his/her support for increased Ryan White funding to members of the Senate Labor-HHS Appropriations Subcommittee."

If you have time in your conversation, please give the specific funding requests determined by the HIV/AIDS community for each Part of the Ryan White Program (listed below). Or, ask for the staffperson's e-mail address and send the information in a follow-up email.

Part A (Title I): $236.4 million increase
Part B (Title II)/Base: $57.4 million increase
Part B (Title II)/AIDS Drug Assistance Program: $232.9 million increase
Part C (Title III): $87.8 million increase
Part D (Title IV): $46.4 million increase
Part F/AIDS Education and Training Centers: $15.3 million increase
Part F/Dental: $5.9 million increase

You can call your Senator toll-free at 1-800-614-2803. You will get the Capitol switchboard. Ask to be connected to your Senator's office. Thank you for taking the time to make a difference!