    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George W. Bush (2006, Book II)]
    [December 9, 2006]
    [Page 2171]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on Congressional Passage of Legislation To Reauthorize the
    Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency Act
    December 9, 2006

        In 1990, Congress passed the Ryan White Comprehensive AIDS Resources
    Emergency (CARE) Act to advance our domestic battle against HIV/AIDS.
    This landmark legislation has provided Americans in need with better
    access to medical care, antiretroviral treatments, and counseling and
    has helped them live longer lives. The act also supports HIV testing to
    prevent the further spread of this devastating disease.
        Laura and I thank the House and Senate for
    reauthorizing the Ryan White CARE Act. This legislation focuses on
    lifesaving and life-extending services and increased accountability and
    will provide more flexibility to the Secretary of Health and Human
    Services to direct funding to areas of greatest need. The Ryan White
    CARE Act demonstrates the compassionate and generous spirit of America,
    and I look forward to signing this important legislation into law.

    Note: The statement referred to H.R. 6143.