This United States map identifies states (1) with HIV-specific criminal laws; (2) those that apply increased penalties for underlying sex crimes; and (3) those with general felony laws that have been used to prosecute people living with HIV. Additionally, we note those states that require registration as a sex offender as part of the punishment under HIV-specific laws, and those states that have undertaken efforts to reform their HIV-specific laws. (Updated July 28, 2020)
The Center for HIV Law and Policy challenges barriers to the rights and health of people affected by HIV through legal advocacy, high-impact policy initiatives, and creation of cross-issue partnerships, networks, and resources. We support movement building that amplifies the power of individuals and communities to mobilize for change that is rooted in racial, gender, and economic justice.