Subject: Declaration Of A Local Emergency Due To AIDS Epidemic From: Office Of The Council President Recommendation: Adopt A Resolution Renewing And Continuing The City Council's Declaration Of A Local Emergency Due To The Existence Of A Critical Public Health Crisis With Regard To The Human Immunodeficiency Virus ("HIV")/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome ("AIDS") Epidemic

The Oakland City Council is renewing and continuing its declaration of a local emergency due to the ongoing critical public health crisis of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. This declaration, first made in 1993 and renewed regularly since, acknowledges the devastating impact of the epidemic on public health and healthcare systems.

The resolution cites data from the CDC and Alameda County reports, highlighting the persistent number of new HIV infections, AIDS diagnoses, and deaths, with specific concerns for intravenous drug users and women. The council reaffirms its support for needle exchange programs as a strategy to limit the spread of HIV/AIDS, referencing California Health and Safety Code Chapter 18 which provides exemptions for authorized programs.

The emergency declaration will be reviewed every 14 days by the City Council. The City Clerk is directed to communicate this resolution to various state and federal officials, including the California Legislature, Alameda County District Attorney, and the California Congressional delegation.