Miami-Dade County's Safety and Health Committee meeting on February 11, 2025, spotlighted a pressing public health issue: the alarming rise in new HIV cases, particularly among African American and Hispanic women. During the session, a call for action was made to address this critical concern, with committee members emphasizing the need for a comprehensive response.

Senator Garcia urged the committee to hold a hearing aimed at developing recommendations to combat the increasing rates of HIV diagnoses in the community. He highlighted the uncomfortable reality that Miami-Dade County leads the nation in new HIV cases, stressing the urgency of the situation. "We cannot allow this to continue," he stated, advocating for a collaborative effort with the Department of Health to foster an honest dialogue about prevention strategies.

In response, Chairman Gonzales expressed support for the initiative, suggesting a potential meeting with Florida's Surgeon General to facilitate a thorough presentation on the issue. This proactive approach aims to engage community leaders and health officials in a concerted effort to stem the tide of new infections.

The meeting also recognized the contributions of the Miami-Dade Police Department's illegal dumping unit, which has made significant strides in keeping neighborhoods clean and safe. Last year, the unit investigated over 2,800 cases, resulting in substantial fines and arrests, showcasing the department's commitment to community safety.

As the committee concluded, the focus on HIV prevention underscored a critical public health challenge that Miami-Dade County must confront head-on. The anticipated discussions and actions stemming from this meeting could pave the way for meaningful change in the fight against HIV in the community.