The bill formerly known as PEPFAR, now the “Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde HIV/AIDS, TB and Malaria Reauthorization Act,” finally made its way to the Senate floor and was passed on a vote of 80-16 on July 16.

The Senate version (S. 2731) included a large Manager’s Amendment reflecting a concerted and effective effort by Senator Tom Coburn (R-Oklahoma), the White House and Senators Joe Biden (D-Delaware) and Richard Lugar (R-Indiana).  Included in this amendment were many pro-life and pro-family concessions by the left.  Though this is not a perfect bill, many strides were made reflecting our core values.  (For further reading on the House version, click here). 

One provision in the Manager’s Amendment was the strengthening of requirements for actual treatment of HIV/AIDS.  This provision requires that more than half of the funding be spent on life-saving medical care for people with HIV/AIDS.

Another victory was stronger language on abstinence and fidelity programs.  A requirement was included which mandated that 50 percent of prevention funds be used on these programs and not other “prevention” methods such as a condom-based approach.

The Senate version also retains a “conscience clause” which protects faith-based groups that don’t perform abortions or provide contraception, including those that provide care to people living with HIV/AIDS.

Another provision requires more accountability and transparency regarding the resources funneled into the U.N.’s Global Fund and grants the U.S. more oversight as to the use of these funds.

The Manager’s Amendment also strikes provisions promoting needle distribution to injection drug users.

S. 2731 still carries a $50 billion dollar price tag, which some critics find discouraging.  However, many find the preservation of many pro-life and pro-family aspects to the bill to be a victory.

The House has adopted the Senate version, and the bill is expected to be signed by President Bush, who praised the passage of the bill in a July 16 press release, saying, “Traveling in Africa earlier this year, Laura and I had our most recent opportunity to witness the effectiveness of this program.  We were honored to see the doctors, nurses and caregivers of all faiths working to save the lives of their fellow citizens. … With passage of today’s bill, we are one step closer to ensuring that this excellent program continues to help those in need.  I encourage the full Congress to move quickly to send me final legislation that I can sign.”

Passage of this bill has been an uphill battle.  Thankfully, because of efforts by pro-family legislators, and pressured by activists like you, Congress was able to reach many fruitful compromises.  It is an example of what can be done through prayer and action, despite a liberal-controlled Congress.