By Jethro Nededog
PFLAG Los Angeles – the LA chapter of the nation’s largest organization dedicated to supporting, educating, and advocating for and with LGBTQ+ people and those who love them –is deeply concerned about federal reductions to HIV prevention funding and the impact these cuts will have on communities across California.
“HIV prevention and treatment save lives,” said Farrah Dodes, president of PFLAG LA. “These reductions threaten decades of progress and put communities at greater risk.”
The Trump administration has moved to rescind more than $600 million in CDC public health funding to four states, including California, targeting HIV and STD prevention programs and HIV surveillance grants. In Los Angeles County alone, federal actions put at risk more than $1.1 million for HIV surveillance and additional funding that supports HIV testing, PrEP access, and frontline community providers.
California and other affected states have sued to block these terminations, but the funding remains in limbo, leaving public health agencies and community organizations facing uncertainty and potential service cuts.
Federal funding supports local health departments and community-based organizations that provide essential services.
“Public health investments strengthen families and communities,” Dodes added. “Reducing support for HIV prevention doesn’t eliminate the need. It increases risk. We urge policymakers to prioritize sustained funding that protects health, equity, and dignity.”
PFLAG LA remains committed to supporting LGBTQ+ people, their families, and allies through education, advocacy, and support, and to advancing policies that protect community health and well-being.
Jethro Nededog is the communications chair of PFLAG LA.