I applaud President Biden’s budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year (“Biden’s budget plan: Higher taxes on rich, lower deficits,” March 28, TribLIVE), particularly the president’s commitment to global public health initiatives.
One aspect of the federal budget that should not be overlooked is our nation’s commitment to The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria, and Biden made the right call by committing $2 billion to the Global Fund.
Over 20 years, the Global Fund partnership has saved 44 million lives, reduced the death rate from these diseases by 64% and strengthened health systems around the world.
Strengthening the Global Fund strengthens us. The Global Fund played an important role in responding to covid-19, and we need to have a continued robust response to the covid crisis.
I urge Congress and specifically my senators, Bob Casey and Pat Toomey, and the Pennsylvania congressional delegation to deliver on the $2 billion Biden included in his FY23 budget request. It will send a signal to other nations that they must do their part at the pledging conference later this year.
Ben Callaway
Lawrenceville