RELEASE: After Friedman-led Pressure, Trump Admin Unfreezes HIV Prevention Grants to South LA Clinics
June 27, 2025
More than $19 million for HIV prevention services restored
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, June 27, 2025, U.S. Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30) celebrated the release of frozen HIV prevention grants to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Less than one month ago, Friedman led California Congressional democrats demanding the Trump Administration immediately release these frozen Congressionally appropriated funds for HIV prevention and surveillance programs and to provide clear answers on the status of these critical awards. In total, Los Angeles received $19,788,675 in federal investment for the period of June 1, 2025 – May 31, 2026. This represents an increase of $338,019 from their 2024 award, based on a full 12 months.
As a result of the stalled grants, LA County was forced to functionally terminate contracts with 39 community health providers, cutting off services for thousands of residents in South Los Angeles and beyond. The Los Angeles LGBT Center — located in Friedman’s district — would have been forced to cease services including HIV testing, STD screening, PrEP navigation, and community education.
“Let’s be clear — the Trump administration’s move to freeze HIV prevention funding was reckless, illegal, and put lives at risk. I led the fight to get this funding restored because science — not political spite — should guide public health decisions,” said Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30). “In Los Angeles County alone, this funding supports critical outreach, PrEP access, and testing — the very tools behind a 21% drop in new HIV infections in targeted areas. I’m relieved the CDC finally did the right thing — but this never should have happened.”
Earlier this month, Friedman hosted an LGBTQ Roundtable to discuss the Trump Administration's attacks on LGBTQ rights and the impact of delayed HIV prevention investments. She was joined by impacted providers and advocates to highlight the urgent need for restored funding and transparency from federal agencies.
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Issues:
Health