GA SR578

Georgia Senate expresses support for the goals and ideals of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, observed annually on February 7, which was founded in 1999 to promote HIV education, testing, community involvement, and treatment in Black communities

Recognizes that an estimated 60,000 Georgians live with HIV/AIDS and that Georgia ranks second in the nation for new HIV diagnoses despite being only the ninth most populated state

Highlights that Black Americans account for nearly half of all U.S. HIV-related deaths since the epidemic began, face later diagnoses, greater barriers to care, and higher morbidity and mortality than white counterparts

Encourages local governments, public health agencies, and media organizations to publicize the day and promote HIV testing, and commends AIDS service organizations, faith-based groups, health care providers, and health departments providing prevention and treatment services

Supports appropriate funding for HIV/AIDS prevention, care, treatment, research, and housing, including community-based efforts to combat stigma, discrimination, racism, homophobia, and transphobia