James M. Jeffords: “it gives me great pleasure that the Senate is moving to pass the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources and Emergency…”

“it gives me great pleasure that the Senate is moving to pass the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources and Emergency Act Amendments of 2000, a measure that will reauthorize a national program providing primary health care services to people living with HIV and AIDS. I especially want to commend Senators Hatch and Kennedy for the leadership they have provided since the inauguration of the legislation establishing the Ryan White programs over a decade ago. I also want to commend Senator Frist whose medical expertise played a critical role in key provisions of the bill and continues to be an invaluable resource to our efforts on the range of health issues that come before the Senate. I want to recognize Senator Dodd for his unwavering support for this legislation and people living with HIV and AIDS. Finally, I want to acknowledge Senator Enzi's recognition of the growing burden that AIDS and HIV have placed on rural communities throughout the country and the need to address those gaps in services. It is also important that we recognize the dedicated efforts of our colleagues in the House of Representatives. Chairman Bliley supported this bill through its passage and provided critical guidance through the negotiations. Representatives Bilirakis, Coburn, and Waxman have demonstrated time and time again their commitment to people living with AIDS and each has worked diligently to find a compromise to ensure the continued services for people with HIV/AIDS.”