Skip to Content

Tennessee’s penalties for HIV-positive people are discriminatory, Justice Department says

By KIMBERLEE KRUESI
Associated Press

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) — The U.S. Department of Justice has announced that Tennessee’s decades-old aggravated prostitution statute violates the Americans with Disabilities Act. The department warned on Friday that the state could face a lawsuit if officials don’t immediately cease enforcement. Tennessee is the only U.S. state that imposes a lifetime registration as a “violent sex offender” if convicted of engaging in sex work while living with HIV, regardless of whether the person knew they could transmit the disease. Court documents state that more than 80 people are registered for aggravated prostitution in Tennessee.

Article Topic Follows: AP National

Jump to comments ↓

Author Profile Photo

Associated Press

BE PART OF THE CONVERSATION

KIFI Local News 8 is committed to providing a forum for civil and constructive conversation.

Please keep your comments respectful and relevant. You can review our Community Guidelines by clicking here

If you would like to share a story idea, please submit it here.

Skip to content