WASHINGTON – The ONE Campaign released the following statement in response to Senate passage of an Administration-requested rescissions package, after removing the requested $400 million rescission for US investments in the fight against HIV/AIDS, including support for the life-saving President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR).  The Senate also added protections for previously appropriated funding for HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, nutrition, and maternal and child health programs. 

“We welcome the Senate’s decision to remove PEPFAR funding from the rescissions package,” said Elizabeth Hoffman, Executive Director for North America at ONE. “PEPFAR is a stunning example of the power of effective and accountable US foreign assistance – and a cornerstone in a long legacy of US global health leadership. It’s imperative that this leadership continues as we build new pathways to sustainability that transition nations from dependence to self-sufficiency.  

“However, we are disappointed that other cuts to other important programs remained in the final package. Congress appropriated these funds a mere four months ago and it is troubling that lawmakers would reverse course without a basic accounting of what programs and activities are being cut.”  

Background:  

In a recent survey of more than 7,000 Americans, the ONE Campaign and Stack Data Strategy found that 69% of respondents supported US investments in the global fight against HIV/AIDS. See more survey results here.