W. Todd Akin: “About a year or so ago we passed the $15 billion AIDS package, and we did so because we believed in the principles of…”

“About a year or so ago we passed the $15 billion AIDS package, and we did so because we believed in the principles of prevention coupled with treatment. Now, the amendment that I am offering here today is to make a crystal-clear understanding that the intention of the United States Congress and the American people is in regard to the distribution of this money. The amendment simply codifies existing law by ensuring that no taxpayer funds designated for this bill, which has to do with tuberculosis, malaria, as well as AIDS, may be used to promote or advocate the legalization of prostitution or sex trafficking, and that no funds may be given to any group or organization that does not have a policy that is explicitly opposing prostitution and sex trafficking. We have received word that there are groups who actively promote prostitution on their Web site, that they have received U.S. tax dollars in the past, and that is why this language is important and why it must be enforced.”