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Senate Secures PEPFAR Funding Amid $9 Billion Cuts

7/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In a significant victory for global health, the U.S. Senate has safeguarded funding for PEPFAR, the vital AIDS relief program, despite attempts to slash $9 billion. After intense negotiations, cuts were minimized, and Senator Mike Rounds played a key role by securing $9 million for Native American radio stations to rally support. A vote on the package is imminent.

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Story summary

In a significant victory for global health, the U.S. Senate has safeguarded funding for PEPFAR, the vital AIDS relief program, despite attempts to slash $9 billion. After intense negotiations, cuts were minimized, and Senator Mike Rounds played a key role by securing $9 million for Native American radio stations to rally support. A vote on the package is imminent.