The L.A.
Daily News reports that new legislation called Prisoner Protections for Family
and Community Health Act or AB 999, calls for distribution of condoms in
prisons. AB 999 just passed the
California State Assembly and is on its way to the state Senate. According to the Daily News, Assemblyman Rob Bonta, D-Oakland, stated while
sexual activity in prisons is illegal, distributiotn of condoms is
necessary. "The HIV/AIDS infection
rate in prison is 8 to 10 times higher than among the general population. Our
state must address this unsettling and sometimes disturbing topic head-on and
realize that the long-term benefits to vulnerable communities, and to the
budget, are well worth the modest state investment."
Bonita said
“the California Department of Health Services estimates the average cost per
patient with HIV in the Medi-Cal system is $23,964 per year. The cost to
distribute condoms is $1.39 per prisoner to implement (LADN).”
Supporters
for the bill include: The AIDS Project
Los Angeles, Women Organized to Respond to Life-threatening Diseases, AIDS
Healthcare Foundation, the California Academy of Preventive Medicine,
California Prevention and Education Project, L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center,
Taxpayers for Improving Public Safety, Allen Temple Health & Social
Services Ministries, and Legal Services for Prisoners with Children.
Source: www.dailynews.com
