MAP Advocate
September 27, 2006
Vol. 12. No. 24
In This Issue:
Walk Your Talk: New CDC Testing Guidelines Released
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently released new HIV testing guidelines that will impact the future of HIV testing. The new guidelines call for routine testing in medical settings for all individuals 13-64. It is estimated that 25% of people living with HIV in the United States are unaware of their diagnosis. The new CDC testing guidelines aim to reduce stigma around HIV testing and help identify the 25% of the HIV population who don’t know their status. The guidelines also recommend eliminating written informed consent, pre-test counseling, and post-test counseling for people who are HIV-negative.
The Minnesota AIDS Project supports increased HIV testing, however, MAP has concerns about the elimination of previous recommendations for HIV test counseling and written, informed consent. MAP has signed on to a statement from the HIV community highlighting these concerns.
CDC Testing Guidelines
Joint Statement on Testing Guidelines
Star Tribune Article on CDC Testing Guidelines
Federal Update: House Committee Passes Ryan White CARE Act Reauthorization Bill
Last week the House Energy and Commerce Committee voted to approve the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Modernization Act by a vote of 38 to 10. A version of the legislation had previously passed through Senate committee. The hope is that a version of the legislation will pass through Congress by the end of September. The Minnesota AIDS Project acknowledges that there are concerns about the legislation but is hopeful that legislation will advance so as to ensure Reauthorization in 2006.
On Tuesday, September 26 a bipartisan group of Senate and House members introduced draft legislation that would extend the current funding formula for the Ryan White CARE Act for one year. Sen. Mark Dayton [DFL-MN] objected. While Sen. Dayton supports the CARE Act and its reauthorization, he knew that a number of his colleagues who would like to have had an opportunity to discuss certain provisions of the CARE Act were not present at the time of the motion, which is why Sen. Dayton made his objection. HIV advocates are skeptical that the CARE Act reauthorization will now pass before Congress adjourns for the elections. Funds will continue to be distributed in accordance with the existing law, with action on reauthorization potentially deferred until Congress reconvenes in December, after the elections, or until the new Congress starts its work in January.
Minnesota Update: Only 40 Days Until November 7—Election Day!
The general election is coming up very fast and there is a lot to do. Becoming a registered, informed voter is easier than it may sound. Make sure you are registered before October 17 or you will need to register at the polls on the day of the election. If you have moved you will need to re-register.
Frequently Asked Questions About Voting
MAP Minnesota Voter Guide
See a Sample Ballot for Your Area (Click on the “Election 06” box)
2006 Voter Engagement Update: Upcoming Candidate Forums
Candidate forums are a great opportunity to learn about where candidates stand on important issues. Take a moment to check out the Minnesota Participation Project’s calendar of upcoming candidate forums in Minnesota. By attending a candidate forum you will have an opportunity to talk to candidates face-to-face about issues that matter to you.
Announcement: MAP Bids Farewell to Bob Tracy!
The Minnesota AIDS Project is saying goodbye to Bob Tracy after 13 years of amazing work. Bob has served as director of public policy, community affairs, and most recently development. He has contributed his high level of skill and strategic leadership throughout his tenure at MAP. MAP thanks Bob for his dedication and hard work over the past 13 years. He will be missed!
Visit the MAP Advocate archive to see what you missed.
For more information about what's of interest to you at the Minnesota State Capitol, visit the Web sites of our allies at OutFront Minnesota and Sex Ed for Life.
MAP Advocate is published by the Minnesota AIDS Project every two weeks while the Minnesota Legislature is in session, and monthly during the rest of the year. It isavailable through the MAP web site mnaidsproject.org and through email list service. If you wish to order the MAP Advocate, visit our Join the Action Network page, or contact MAP Public Policy by phone or email.
MAP Public Policy
Minnesota AIDS Project
1400 Park Avenue
Minneapolis, MN 55404
612-341-2060
800-373-2437
public.policy@mnaidsproject.org
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Last Updated:
Friday, March 30, 2007
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