Oppose $1.3 Billion Cut to HIV Prevention Funding

I am writing to express my deep concern and opposition to the proposed elimination of the Division of HIV Prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the $1.3 billion cut in federal funding for HIV prevention programs. This drastic reduction in funding would have devastating consequences for public health and set back decades of progress in combating the HIV epidemic. The proposed cuts would severely impact critical services including HIV testing, pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) navigation, and syringe service programs (SSPs). These programs have been instrumental in reducing new HIV diagnoses nationwide, particularly among young people. Dismantling this infrastructure now would be both short-sighted and potentially deadly. Bill Keeton, Chief Advocacy Officer at Vivent Health, has stated that this proposal would effectively end critical funding for life-saving medication, education, and resources for those most impacted by HIV. Organizations like Vivent Health, which receives $5,375,000 annually for HIV prevention programs across six states, would lose their ability to provide essential services to vulnerable populations. It's crucial to consider the long-term economic impact of these cuts. The lifetime average cost of HIV care and treatment is estimated at $500,000 per individual. By investing in prevention now, we can significantly reduce future healthcare costs and improve public health outcomes. We have the tools to end the HIV epidemic, but we need resources to make these tools accessible to everyone, especially people of color, LGBTQ individuals, and those living in poverty who are disproportionately affected by HIV. Cutting funding now would disproportionately harm these already marginalized communities. I urge you to strongly oppose any cuts to HIV prevention funding and to advocate for maintaining and strengthening these vital programs. The lives of countless Americans depend on your action. Please work to ensure that the Division of HIV Prevention at the CDC remains intact and fully funded, so we can continue the progress we've made in ending the HIV epidemic.