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 Supporters of the bill say that this law is outdated, especially since you can’t get HIV by someone spitting on you.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.
-
Colts chase another milestone with 1st 2-0 start since 2009 in Week 2 matchup
Now that the Indianapolis Colts have ended their 11-game opening day winless streak, they can focus on their next milestone — their first 2-0 start since 2009.
IMPD detains Herron High School student who brought a gun to school
The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police have taken a Herron High School student into custody after they brought a gun to school on Thursday morning, a school official said.
Local man waves flag over I-465 for 24th year to honor 9/11 victims
James Clark stood on West 56th Street bridge to ensure younger generations never forget the September 11 attacks.
New Lawrence bookstore makes reading affordable while tackling literacy hap
As Red Dog Books brings low-cost books and volunteer opportunities to the community, local nonprofit RISE INDY highlights the urgent need to improve literacy rates across Marion County.
