Illinois
agreement allocates more money for AIDS programs

An agreement struck between Democratic lawmakers in Illinois and Gov. Rod Blagojevich allocates more money for key AIDS programs throughout the state, the Associated Press reports. The agreement was struck to guarantee Democrats' support for Blagojevich's budget proposal. The agreement will provide $250,000 to the state's AIDS Drug Assistance Program for hepatitis drugs and several grants ranging between $25,000 and $400,000 for community-based groups offering support services for HIV patients and homeless youth. (The Advocate)