Decriminalizing HIV in Indiana: A Policy Analysis

The US National HIV/AIDS Strategy (2022-2025) underscores a critical need for reform of state HIV criminalization laws to mitigate health inequities. This article examines Indiana's laws, which are discriminatory and do not reflect the current science of HIV transmission. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Policy Analytical Framework was employed, and historical context and public health implications were analyzed, revealing that the most favorable solution to mitigate inequity and support prevention is to repeal HIV-related laws in Indiana. Nurse practitioners must be aware of this discriminatory legislation and contribute to advocacy efforts for policy change by leveraging clinical expertise to influence legislative discussions.

Duke Scholars

Author AnnMarie Walton School of Nursing