2003 Illinois HIV/AIDS Policy Priorities: Supporting Proven HIV Prevention Approaches

The people of Illinois deserve a comprehensive, science-based, and results-oriented approach to HIV prevention with the goal of dramatically reducing new HIV infections. An extensive body of scientific research has illuminated the policies and programs that work-Illinois has yet to fully embrace these proven strategies.

State lawmakers should help lower rates of HIV in Illinois by pursuing the following legislative and programmatic initiatives:

Pass legislation to allow adults to purchase and possess sterile syringes through pharmacies without a prescription.

• Illinois is one of only five states that has a law requiring a prescription to purchase sterile syringes.
• More than 40 studies and seven federally commissioned reports have proven that increased access to sterile syringes decreases HIV and hepatitis C infections without increasing drug use.
• Allowing pharmacy-based sales of sterile syringes will expand HIV prevention options for injection drug users, and by extension, their partners and children without requiring any additional state funding.

Restore HIV prevention funding directed towards communities of color that was vetoed during the last legislative session. Increase the appropriation by $2 million for a total of $4 million targeting high-risk communities.

• According to state figures, two of every three reported HIV cases occur among people of color. African Americans and Latinos account for nearly 60% of Illinois' cumulative AIDS cases, but only 27% of the state's population.
• The appropriation, first created in 2001, supported projects serving minority communities at 18 agencies in Chicago, and in Cook, Kane, Madison, Peoria, St. Clair, Will, and Winnebago counties. Restoring this funding will mean that hundreds of people at high risk for HIV infection will receive the education and support that could save their lives.

Pass legislation requiring that sexuality and health education be medically accurate and comprehensive.

• Such a law will ensure that all public school students receiving sex and health education will be taught in a manner that is age-appropriate, medically accurate, and comprehensive so that they may learn about abstinence, sexuality, risk-reduction activities, HIV/AIDS, other sexually transmitted diseases, and pregnancy prevention in a manner that prepares them to make informed life decisions.
• When teens are given honest information they make more responsible choices. Schools can help all students with a balanced approach that teaches abstinence along with facts about contraception, reproductive health, and responsible decision-making.

Pass legislation ensuring that pregnant women receive necessary HIV counseling during prenatal care to prevent mother-to-child HIV transmission.

• New medical advances have been shown to prevent approximately 90% of all perinatal HIV infections.
• Research shows that when appropriately counseled, up to 95% of pregnant women will consent to HIV testing during prenatal care. If test results come back positive, appropriate medical care can provide women with education about ways to both address their own healthcare needs and prevent transmission to their unborn child.

Pass a joint resolution calling on Congress and President Bush to enact the Microbicide Development Act.

• Microbicides are chemical agents that prevent the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases. They are being developed in cream, gel, foam, and other forms for use in addition to or in place of condoms.
• Congress is currently considering a bill to increase funding for microbicide development because the National Institutes of Health has identified microbicide research and development as a priority in their most recent five-year plan. Insufficient funding is slowing the development of these desperately needed HIV/AIDS prevention tools.
• Microbicides will save lives, reduce medical costs, and will help advance the fight against HIV/AIDS in Illinois and throughout the world.

Printable Document

Executive Summary

HIV Prevention Priorities

HIV Care Priorities

Prevention Background

Policy Priorities Archive