S. 1793, The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act Of 2009

Floor Speech

S. 1793, The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act Of 2009

* Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Madam Speaker, I rise in support of S. 1793, the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009. This program is a last resort in providing life-saving care to the more than 500,000 Americans currently living with HIV/AIDS. Named after Ryan White, who courageously fought this illness and helped bring to the forefront a national dialogue about HIV/AIDS, this program helps the most vulnerable receive the treatment and support they need to maintain a high quality of life. While we race to find a cure, the Ryan White Act provides access to doctors, drugs, counseling and the care many people living with HIV/AIDS would otherwise not receive.

* In my home State of Connecticut, there are over 10,000 reported cases of people living with HIV/AIDS. A disproportionate amount of these cases occur in low-income areas of the State where people are less likely to have the ability to access HIV/AIDS treatment. In Hartford alone, the largest city in my district, there are over 2,000 reported cases. For many of my constituents, the Ryan White Act is vitally important.

* Because of the Ryan White Act, the most vulnerable of those living with HIV/AIDS have access to important services like housing, food, substance abuse treatment, and medical care that are shown to help people make safe choices and live constructive lives. Of those that are served by the Ryan White HIV/AIDS program, 33 percent do not have health insurance and 56 percent are underinsured. In a country with as much wealth and advances in medical technology as ours, it would be unconsionable to allow the most vulnerable to go without essential care. This legislation is a clear example of action we can take that will truly make a positive difference. I am proud to support the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009, which will bring hope to so many lives.

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