Bush praises AIDS bill

Associated Press - July 26, 2008 3:33 AM ET

WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush is welcoming congressional approval of a big boost in America's global fight against AIDS.

The president is using his weekly radio address for a rare thank-you to the Democratic-led Congress. Lawmakers this year authorized a new, 5-year, $48-billion commitment to the campaign against AIDS, malaria and other diseases, especially in Africa. It's a signature, Bush initiative already credited with saving or prolonging millions of lives.

Though some conservatives balked at the cost, the measure passed with bipartisan support. Bush is to sign it Wednesday, cementing what he sees as a key and largely overlooked piece of his presidential legacy.

The current $15-billion effort ends in September.