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Quigley Statement on the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act

October 21, 2009

WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Mike Quigley (D-IL) released the following statement today after the House passed the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act to continue providing care to over 500,000 Americans, many of whom are uninsured:

"Two decades ago, a young man who contracted HIV from a routine blood transfusion died from AIDS and courageously broke our national silence about the diagnosis. Out of his death came life, in the form of the namesake Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act which provides assistance to those who would otherwise go without. This "payer of last resort" helps nearly 25% of the 44,000 Illinoisans alone who are currently living with HIV/AIDS. I am proud that we have passed this extension today so that we may continue expanding access to vital services and helping more individuals get early treatment. I look forward to the President's signature on this bill, but more eagerly to the day when we find a cure for this ferocious disease which has claimed too many of our friends and loved ones."

The Ryan White Act was set to sunset and expire in September of this year. Last month, Quigley spoke on the House floor regarding the importance of this extension. He also signed a letter with other members of the Illinois delegation calling for a three-year extension of the Act.

Issues:Equality