INDIANAPOLIS — A bill is currently working its way through the statehouse that would remove sentence enhancements and criminal offenses related to HIV.
Currently under Indiana law, if someone with HIV knowingly shares their bodily fluids on another person in any way, it is a level 5 felony. Supporters of the bill say that this law is outdated, especially since you can’t get HIV by someone spitting on you.
Carrie Foote has been living with HIV for over 30 years and have been advocating for this law change with the organization HIV Modernization Movement Indiana.
She says this will help educate people more about the medical advancements that have been made.
“There is nothing more stigmatizing then when there is a criminal law the punishes you for something about ourselves that we can’t change — a disease,” Foote said. “We are just living with a disease trying to manage our lives and live well. “
However, not everyone is supporting the bill, including the Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police.
“The practical reality for what police officers face every day — this enhancement is very important,” Ed Merchant, who was representing the Indiana State Fraternal Order of Police at the committee hearing, said. “We just ask that that enhancement remain as it relates to law enforcement and public safety.”
House Bill 1198 was not voted on today but will be at a later date with amendments expected to come forward.
To read more about why the HIV Modernization Movement Indiana is supporting this legislation, click here.
-
Cyberattack on Canvas disrupts finals for Indiana schools, thousands worldwide
A cyberattack on Canvas disrupted access for 9,000 schools worldwide derailed finals preparation for millions. Indiana University confirmed it was a part of the breach.
IMPD: 1 dead, 1 critical after driver flees traffic stop on near east side
One person died and another person is in critical condition after police say a suspected drunk driver fled a traffic stop on Indy's near east side early Friday morning.
Seasonal with several rain chances through the weekend
A half and half weekend with warmer conditions for the first part of the weekend. Scattered rain and slightly cooler weather for your Mother’s Day.
I-465 northbound closed near East 71st Street due to semi fire
A semitruck fire on the northeast side of Indianapolis has shut down part of I-465 during the Friday morning rush.
