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An Act relating to crimes and punishments; amending 21 O.S. 2021, Section 1192, which relates to the unlawful spread of infectious diseases; specifying additional infectious diseases; updating language; and providing an effective date.
Status:
Failed
Location:
Failed
Session:
2024 Regular Session
Below includes an assessment and fact check of the HB 3098 committee presentation.
The impact on women was discussed in the Senate Public Safety Committee.
85% of the population will contract HPV in their lifetime (American Health Rankings). According to the author, knowing a person’s STI status is needed to recklessly transmit.
It was noted that only women can be tested for HPV (CDC). The author explained that technology moves forward and a test for men is probable in the next few years. There is no indication that such tests are being developed. Men are encouraged to get the HPV vaccine as prevention.
The list of conditions was questioned, asking how they were accumulated. The author stated it was in consultation with public health professionals and doctors. Research does not support criminalization as an effective way to reduce STI rates. Rather, it is shown that stigma increases and likely discourages testing, disclosure, and treatment (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services).
The author stated that the conditions listed were chosen because they are persistent and not treatable. Syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis are curable with medications. There are 150+ strains of HPV and 9 out of 10 resolve on their own (CDC).
The list of criminalized illnesses was amended and reduced when heard in committee.
Would criminalize “knowingly” transmitting the following medical conditions with a felony:
Would expand laws that currently felonize “knowingly” transmitting certain illnesses to include the following medical conditions:
Authors
Toni Hassenbeck – HD 65
Jessica Garvin – SD 43
