Florida reportedly halts proposed cuts to HIV meds after complaint
The red ribbon is used to raise awareness of those living with HIV/AIDS (Canva)
Florida health officials have reportedly paused plans to dramatically restrict access to the state’s AIDS Drug Assistance Program after advocates mounted a legal challenge.
In early January, the Florida Department of Health had proposed scaling back ADAP’s income eligibility from 400% of the federal poverty level to 130%, a change that could cut off lifesaving HIV medication for an estimated 16,000 people, according to an analysis by the National Alliance of State and Territorial AIDS Directors.
In response, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation filed complaints with the Florida Division of Administrative Hearings alleging the state failed to follow required rule-making procedures when adopting the new criteria.
READ MORE: HIV-positive men hold kiss-in next to Trump’s border wall for World AIDS Day
The nonprofit also filed a second lawsuit on Monday (2 February) seeking public records related to an “undocumented $120 million budget shortfall” which was was cited as motivation for the proposal.
The Florida Department of Health now appears to be stepping back from its 1 March deadline, as reported by WJHG.
It has also issued notices indicating the changes will now go through a formal public process.
Advocates say the pause opens the door for public input and greater transparency around the state’s claimed $120 million budget shortfall.
The proposed ADAP cuts come after the Trump administration moved to slash both domestic and international HIV/AIDS funding last year, in large part by dismantling USAID programs.
Share your thoughts! Let us know in the comments below, and remember to keep the conversation respectful.
