Advocates representing nearly a dozen local organizations recently called on state leaders to pass a state budget that includes crucial increased funding for housing, health care and children's services that could have an impact on the LGBT community.
On Wed., June 11, organizations such as AIDS Foundation of Chicago ( AFC ) and the Chicago Coalition for the Homeless held a press conference, calling on state leaders to approve the FY 2009 state budget passed by the state legislature without cutting essential funding increases. Among the increases is $1.5 million for HIV/AIDS drug assistance and HIV testing.
Gov. Rod Blagojevich has threatened to veto the budget, which includes $2 billion in new spending, thus potentially subject to cuts. Last year's budget battle went into overtime. House and Senate leaders want the FY2009 state budget agreed on by a July 1 deadline. Budget talks are currently underway.
The $500,000 for HIV testing would help identify an estimated 10,000 people living with the disease in Illinois. AFC said that increased funding for HIV testing has the potential to have a tremendous impact. This money would help fund a new HIV testing law that makes it easier for health care providers to provide HIV testing.
The governor vetoed over $1 million in new HIV funding out of last year's state budget.
'We want to make sure the same thing doesn't happen again this year,' said John Peller, director of government relations for AFC, adding that the state budget is in a 'precarious situation.' He urges state legislators and the governor to keep the discussion going.
The $1 million to expand access to the AIDS Drug Assistance Program would help roughly 150 people get assistance for their HIV/AIDS medications, according to AFC. Peller said that AFC knows individuals who are purposely working less hours in order to qualify for HIV/AIDS drug assistance.
'No one should have to make the choice between HIV/AIDS meds and work,' Peller said.
Chicago Coalition for the Homeless' Eithne McMenamin said that the press conference is to remind state leaders to ensure 'the little guys aren't left out of the discussion.'
Sean Noble of Voices for Illinois Children expressed his frustration with the attention the struggle between state leaders has been receiving.
'There is not enough focus on the needs of everyday people,' Noble said.