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| HIV Testing Bill Draws Mixed Reactions |
| By washingtoninformer.com |
| Published: 10/22/2009 |
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A bill to require mandatory testing of HIV/AIDS in the District of Columbia's correctional facilities has elicited support among those who believe that it will help stem the tide of the deadly epidemic, but has received criticism because some think testing is unnecessary and the city's efforts in testing inmates is adequate. D.C. Councilmember Marion Barry (D-Ward 8) is the sponsor of the "Mandatory HIV Testing and Educational Services for Inmates and Committed Youth Amendment Act of 2009." The bill would mandate HIV/AIDS testing of all inmates and committed juvenile offenders confined in the D.C. Jail, the Correctional Treatment facility and the Oak Hill Youth Center in Laurel, Md. "There are many people in the city who are suffering from HIV/AIDS and it has reached epidemic proportions," Barry said. "In order to control this disease we have to take extraordinary measures.” The legislation would require that any person who has been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor would be required to give a blood sample to health officials in the correctional system. If an individual tests positive, the bill states that the inmate receives counseling, educational sessions, dietary and nutritional counseling, condoms and HIV/AIDS case management. Read More. |
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