The US government’s decision to slash federal funding for HIV/AIDS programs has sparked outrage among advocates and experts in Massachusetts. The cuts come as new infections rise and public health officials warn of a “surge” in AIDS deaths unless the US reinstates its fiscal support.
People living with HIV, including writer Beatrice Bell, are speaking out against the administration’s efforts to slash funding for disease prevention and treatment programs. Bell lost custody of her children due to a social worker’s alleged prejudice towards her HIV diagnosis decades ago.
The Trump administration has targeted HIV/AIDS funding both domestically and abroad as part of its effort to slash federal spending. The cuts have eliminated related National Institutes of Health grants, frozen USAID dollars, and floated the potential closure of the Division of HIV Prevention at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In Massachusetts, advocates are emphasizing the importance of state funding, specifically the $35 million allocated for HIV/AIDS/Hepatitis C programs in the 2026 budget. The program supports testing, linkage to care, syringe service programs, treatment assistance, and access to PrEP.
Garry Daffin, CEO of the Multicultural Aids Coalition, warned that public perception about HIV is shifting towards a “thing of the past,” which could lead to complacency and a lack of urgency in addressing the issue. He emphasized the need for continued funding and resources to combat the epidemic.
The advocacy group Project ABLE has called on state legislators to restore funding for HIV/AIDS programs, citing the high impact of these funds as significant returns on investment. The group’s Rich Baker noted that it’s not just an urban issue but a concern across Massachusetts communities.
As the US grapples with a surge in AIDS deaths, advocates urge lawmakers to prioritize HIV funding and support public health initiatives.
Source: https://www.masslive.com/news/2025/03/i-wanna-live-hiv-advocates-in-mass-push-for-state-funding-as-trump-slashes-federal-dollars.html