In California from January 1, 2018 year withholding HIV status from a sexual partner is no longer considered a serious crime. On Friday Governor Jerry brown signed legislation, according to which the concealment of this information will no longer be considered a criminal offence, and amounts to misconduct.
Previously, people who knowingly subjected to risk of being infected or infect others HIV / AIDS, was threatened with imprisonment for the term up to 8 years. According to the new law, the maximum term of imprisonment will be 6 months. In addition, the donation of contaminated blood is now considered to be misdemeanor, not a serious crime.
The bill was sponsored by Senator Scott Wiener and a member of the local legislative body Todd Gloria (both Democrats), who argued that the California law regarding HIV-infected people is outdated, given recent medical advances. As proof, they cited the fact that people with HIV who are on regular treatment, have a low chance to infect others.
On Friday, Gloria issued a statement which says that the bill will deliver «the fight against HIV/AIDS to the fore» in the state.
Weiner also added that the bill will encourage people to undergo testing for infection will reduce HIV incidence in the state.
Also, the new bill has found support in the ranks of LGBT organizations and groups advocating for equality, representatives of which expressed the view that the bill will help reduce discrimination of people living with HIV-positive status.
However, the bill found, and opponents, especially in the camp of the Republicans. Many senators from the Republican party strongly opposed the new law, arguing that it may instead lead to an increase in the number HIV-infected.
Sentor Jeff stone, a pharmacist, who voted against the bill, has denied allegations and Gloria Wiener, the treatment reduces the risk of HIV infection. The Senator said that three of the four people who are undergoing treatment, are in contempt of your doctor about medication. Senator Joel Andersonalso did not support the law, said irresponsibility failure to report such factors that can dramatically affect the lives of others.
