HIV

Though great progress has been made, the HIV/AIDS crisis is
far from over. Equal Rights Washington supports the positions held by
the Communities in Action Network (CAN) and Lifelong AIDS Alliance,
including:

• Retention of Washington’s leading-edge AIDS Omnibus law which focuses prevention resources where they are most needed
• Improved coordination and collaboration between state
  agencies for HIV prevention among substance abuse and mental health
  service providers
• Comprehensive, medically accurate sexuality education
• Efforts to expand affordable and comprehensive insurance
  access, including prescription drug coverage benefits to all Washington
  residents whether through public (WSHIP, Medicaid, EIP, EHIP) or
  private programs
• Opposing efforts to weaken or repeal the state’s law permitting the use of medical marijuana
• Opposing legislation that limits or denies public
  assistance to groups or individuals at risk for or living with HIV
  disease, including immigrants and undocumented aliens
• Strong accountability standards and community input
  regarding the distribution and allocation of AIDS Omnibus funds
  including clear performance measures and guidelines
• State and local efforts to provide comprehensive housing resources for individuals and families affected by HIV/AIDS
• Continued access to anonymous HIV testing throughout the state

For information about HIV/AIDS and how you can get involved, visit Lifelong AIDS Alliance or the Communities in Action Network.