Likely Thanks to DOGE, Government Claims HIV-Positive SF Man Owes Them 200K In Disability Payments

Paul Aguilar, a 62-year-old HIV activist, is facing a troubling situation as the federal government has cut off his disability payments and is demanding repayment of over $200,000 in benefits. The government claims that Aguilar's benefits should have ceased in December 2013, despite his ongoing health challenges. Aguilar, who has been on disability since 2005, has contributed significantly to his community, including serving as a Grand Marshal for SF Pride and being active in the HIV Advocacy Network. Dr. Monica Gandhi, a prominent figure at UCSF’s Gladstone Center for AIDS Research, has publicly supported Aguilar, stating that he has always needed Social Security for his health.

Currently, Aguilar is navigating the appeals process with the assistance of an attorney and has applied for a waiver. His case raises important questions about the treatment of individuals who rely on government assistance and the impact of policy decisions on vulnerable populations. As he seeks to rectify this situation, the community is rallying around him, highlighting the need for compassion and understanding in bureaucratic processes. The story underscores the broader implications of governmental changes affecting those most in need.