LEGISLATURE INCREASES STATE AIDS BUDGET

In its recently concluded session, the Tennessee General Assembly approved an amendment to Governor Bredesen’s FY 2007-2008 budget that increases state funding for HIV treatment and care by $2.8 million to a total of $8.4 million. 

The funding addresses a shortfall created by a reduction in federal funding to Tennessee for AIDS care.  This vital funding will help to preserve the safety net for Tennesseans living with HIV disease.

Of equal importance, the funding amendment was passed as a recurring expenditure. This means it becomes part of the annual budget for HIV/AIDS care, helping to preserve the safety net for future needs. 

(Part of the original budget proposal, specifically $3 million, was approved as one-time funds.  This will need to be approved and increased next year, ideally as recurring funds, to meet the steadily rising needs of low-income HIV-infected Tennesseans for care of treatment.)

Nashville CARES thanks members of the general assembly who supported increased funding for HIV/AIDS care.  In particular, CARES thanks Senators Beverly Marrero, James Kyle, and Douglas Henry, and Representatives Joe Armstrong and Johnny Shaw, for their hard work on behalf of the amendment.  Thanks as well to everyone living with or affected by HIV/AIDS, who called their legislators in support of the amendment.