Federal HIV/AIDS Policy Updates
Last Updated: May 2025
Stay informed with the latest federal policies and initiatives aimed at combating HIV/AIDS. This section provides updates on key legislative changes, government programs, and strategic plans designed to end the HIV epidemic in the U.S. by 2030.
Overview of President Trump's Executive Actions Impacting LGBTQ+ Health
Since the start of his second term, President Trump has issued several executive actions that significantly impact LGBTQ+ health. Key actions include:
Rescinding Protections
Several executive orders issued by President Biden, aimed at protecting LGBTQ+ rights and health access, have been rescinded. This includes orders on preventing discrimination based on gender identity or sexual orientation and advancing equality for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Policy Changes
The administration has declared that there are only two sexes, male and female, and has mandated that sex markers on IDs must reflect this. This policy affects intersex, non-binary, and gender-nonconforming individuals.
Healthcare Restrictions
Restrictions have been placed on gender-affirming healthcare for transgender individuals under the age of 19. This includes limiting access to necessary medical treatments and procedures.
Military and Government
Transgender individuals are banned from serving in the military, and diversity, equity, and inclusion programs across the government and armed services have been eliminated.
These actions have raised concerns among LGBTQ+ and human rights groups about the potential negative effects on the health and well-being of the LGBTQ+ community.
Recent Activity
CDC Cuts
The CDC's HIV Prevention Division has faced substantial budget cuts, amounting to $1 billion. This has led to the defunding of various branches within the division, including HIV research, prevention communications, and behavioral & clinical surveillance. These cuts are expected to severely impact the nation's ability to prevent new HIV infections.
NIH Grant Cancellations
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has abruptly canceled millions in grants related to HIV, LGBTQ+ health, STI, substance use, and equity-based research. This includes the termination of $18 million in funding for the Adolescent Trials Network, which focuses on diagnosing, preventing, and treating HIV among adolescents and young adults.
Policy Changes
New presidential-issued policy changes have restricted federal support for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives and redefined gender classifications. These shifts threaten to exacerbate inequities and undermine progress made toward supporting the health and well-being of communities disproportionately impacted by HIV.
Elimination of EHE Initiative
The Ending the HIV/AIDS Epidemic (EHE) Initiative, which was a significant cross-cutting HIV initiative from President Trump's first term, is set to be eliminated. This initiative had provided crucial funding and support for HIV prevention and treatment efforts.
Federal Programs Dedicated to Addressing HIV/AIDS
Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program
Administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), this program provides a comprehensive system of care for people living with HIV who are uninsured or underinsured.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
The CDC's Division of HIV Prevention supports national, state, and community-based activities aimed at preventing new HIV infections and improving health outcomes for people with HIV.
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
NIH conducts extensive research on HIV/AIDS, focusing on prevention, treatment, and finding a cure.
Medicaid and Medicare
These programs provide health coverage for eligible individuals living with HIV/AIDS.
Ending the HIV Epidemic (EHE) Initiative
This initiative aims to reduce new HIV infections in the U.S. by 90% by 2030 through targeted efforts in high-need areas.
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