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HR 393

A Resolution designating February 28, 2026, as "HIV is Not a Crime Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz and 12 co-sponsors

Pennsylvania designates February 28, 2026, as awareness day addressing HIV criminalization laws and their impact on public health and marginalized communities.

Referred to Judiciary
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HR 393

Legislative bill overview

HR 393 is a resolution designating February 28, 2026, as "HIV is Not a Crime Awareness Day" in Pennsylvania. The resolution is symbolic legislation intended to raise awareness about criminalization of HIV transmission and related legal issues affecting people living with HIV.

Why is this important

Pennsylvania, like many states, has laws that criminalize knowingly transmitting HIV or exposing others to it. This awareness day aims to spotlight these laws and their disproportionate impact on marginalized communities, while promoting understanding of HIV transmission science and treatment advances that have reduced transmission risk.

Potential points of contention

  • Criminal law balance: Some argue these criminalization statutes protect public health and hold people accountable, while others contend they deter testing, disclosure, and treatment engagement
  • Scope and messaging: Disagreement exists over whether the awareness focus should address treatment as prevention (undetectable = untransmittable) or remain broader to other legal and social issues
  • Symbolic vs. substantive: Critics may view this as performative gesture without accompanying legislative changes to actual criminalization statutes; supporters see awareness as necessary first step for policy reform

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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