HI SR42

Requests the FDA eliminate its one-year deferral policy that prevents men who have sex with men (MSM) from donating blood and blood components.

Cites that the current deferral policy, implemented in 2015, is not scientifically justified since blood is already rigorously tested within days and the one-year waiting period does not align with disease screening windows.

Notes that 15 countries including Italy, Spain, Mexico, and Argentina have either lifted MSM bans or maintain no-deferral policies, with Italy's 2001 policy change to individual risk assessment showing no significant impact on HIV rates.

References a 2014 UCLA study finding that lifting MSM donor restrictions could increase the U.S. annual blood supply by 2-4 percent, potentially saving more lives.

Directs certified copies be sent to the FDA Commissioner, Chair of the Blood Products Advisory Committee, and Chair of the Advisory Committee on Blood and Tissue Safety and Availability.