Message to the Congress
on the Human Immunodeficiency Virus Epidemic Action Plan
To
the Congress of the
I
have approved a 10-point action plan to advance the national and international
response to the public health threat caused by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus
(HIV) infection and the AIDS epidemic. These strong measures require
compassion, cooperation, and commitment from all levels of government and all
segments of society.
It
is imperative that action and progress continue in the Federal government and
in the private sector, as well as throughout the Nation. Those infected with
the HIV must be treated with dignity and compassion as our health systems
accelerate their response to the infection. To this end, my initiatives direct
that every Federal agency adopt policies and guidelines on compassionate
treatment of HIV-infected persons in the workplace. I ask that unions, schools,
businesses, and private citizens consider adopting similar guidelines. The
10-point action plan is consistent with the fine work and recommendations of
the President's Commission, which has moved the Nation forward in its
understanding of the HIV infection and AIDS.
I
now ask the Congress to take another important step forward; I ask you to enact
the FY 1989 appropriations for HIV activities as expeditiously as possible. I
further call on the Congress to adopt the FY 1990 budget request regarding HIV
measures as soon as possible after the budget is submitted.
It
is imperative to the future of our Nation that we move with compassion and
skill to ease the tremendous human, social, and economic costs caused by the
HIV infection and AIDS. I know we can work together in this matter of
tremendous concern and priority for all Americans.
Ronald
Reagan
The
White House,