    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1996, Book I)]
    [May 2, 1996]
    [Page 685]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    [[Page 685]]

    Statement on Senate Action To Extend the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS
    Resources Emergency Act
    May 2, 1996

        I applaud the Members of Congress for this overwhelming statement of
    support for the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act.
    By extending this vital program for 5 additional years, lawmakers of
    both parties are sending a message of support to thousands of Americans
    who are living with HIV or AIDS and to their families and friends who
    offer them love and support each and every day. In its first 5 years of
    existence, the Ryan White CARE Act has provided high-quality medical
    care and support services that help to extend the length and improve the
    quality of life for people living with HIV/AIDS. I have been proud of
    our recent success in increasing funding for this program by more than
    110 percent in the last 3 years, including a $105 million increase in
    the recently enacted budget agreement for fiscal year 1996. I look
    forward to signing this bill and continuing this record of bipartisan
    support.