SR0116 94TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0116 LRB094 11721 HSS 43625 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) provides access to treatment for low-income people living with HIV/AIDS who are uninsured or lack adequate prescription drug coverage; and

WHEREAS, ADAP assistance and the Ryan White CARE Act services provide a safety net for Americans who have no other means of accessing HIV medications; and

WHEREAS, Nearly 4,000 Illinoisans rely on Illinois ADAP for their lifesaving medications; and

WHEREAS, Many state ADAPs have been facing financial difficulties and are unable to meet the needs of those who depend on the program; and

WHEREAS, Twenty states have implemented restrictions to treatment access, including waiting lists in nine states, and eight states are anticipating new or additional restrictions in the next few months; and

WHEREAS, The number of people depending on ADAP continues to grow; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE NINETY-FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we call on the United States Congress to fully fund the AIDS Drug Assistance Program at $1.037 billion in FY06; and be it further

RESOLVED, That we respectfully urge Congress to fully fund the essential health and social services that enable individuals to access ADAP and remain in care; the CARE Act should be fully funded at $2.561 billion in FY06, an increase of $513.35 million, which includes the requested amount for ADAP; and be it further

RESOLVED, That copies of this resolution be presented to HIV/AIDS Chief Andre Rawls; Nancy Abraham, ADAP/CHIC Administrator; Dr. Eric Whitaker, Director of Public Health; and each member of the Illinois Congressional Delegation.