Reps. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) and Mike Quigley (D-Ill.) announced that the Appropriations Committee had passed their amendment to the annual Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill, which would increase funding for the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program by $3 million, according to RealEstateRama.com.
“The security HOPWA provides to vulnerable families is a proven and effective tool in the fight against HIV/AIDS,” Quigley said in a statement AIDS Foundation of Chicago issued that praised Quigley for his part in the development. “Studies show individuals in stable housing have improved health, are less likely to transmit the virus, and are more likely to adhere to their medications and stay out of emergency rooms, which saves everyone money. I’m thrilled we can increase funding for a vital program that makes economic sense and protects the public’s health.”
In a separate action, the U.S. Senate advanced a companion appropriations bill that proposes level funding for HOPWA at $332 million.