Washington, D.C -- Rep. Xavier Becerra (D-Los Angeles, CA) met with Suzi Rodriguez from the Tarzana Treatment Center and Daryl Flynn from Behavioral Health Services during their recent visit to Capitol Hill to lobby for the reauthorization of the Ryan White CARE Act.

"We need to renew our support and continue to extend a helping hand to those who are living with HIV/AIDS," stated Rep. Becerra. "Through the CARE Act, we can help people maintain their dignity and quality of life. We must fight for the continuation of these programs which enable those living with HIV/AIDS to remain healthy, productive members of our communities."

With more than 14,000 Los Angeles County residents living with AIDS, and an additional estimated 25,000 infected with HIV, Rep. Becerra noted, "Given these staggering numbers not only are support services vital, but increased prevention efforts are key to reducing the number of new infections of HIV."

The Ryan White CARE Act, enacted in 1990, represents the largest authorization of federal funds allocated to provide health and social services to people infected with HIV/AIDS. As the CARE Act expires in September 2000, Congress is currently considering legislation to reauthorize existing critical programs.