Several Republican Senators led by Tom Coburn of Oklahoma are blocking Tom Lantos and Henry J. Hyde US Global Leadership Against HIV/AIDS or S. 2731 after it was passed the Foreign Relations Committee in a 18-to-3 vote.
The Senators are objecting to the increase from $19 million to $50 million in aid through PEPFAR. They argue that the increase in funds as well as the elimination of a requirement that 55% of the money be spent on treatment as opposed to other services is irresponsible. Those in favor of the bill argue that the elimination of this requirement and the increase in funds will give PEPFAR more flexibility; and therefore, increase the effectiveness of the program in treating the AIDS epidemic.
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