FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Contact: Zoe Ades, Communications Director
COUNCILMEMBER PINTO INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO PREVENT INSURERS FROM DISCRIMINATING AGAINST PrEP USERS
Today, Councilmember Pinto introduced legislation to encourage the prescribed use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (an HIV prevention medication commonly called PrEP) and reduce stigma associated with HIV and HIV prevention medication by prohibiting insurers from factoring use of PrEP in decisions related to the issuance of disability, life, or long-term care insurance policies. The Removing Barriers and Reducing Stigma to Encourage HIV Prevention Amendment Act of 2023 bill will ensure individuals are not dissuaded from using PreP because of potential negative consequences on their disability, life, or long-term care insurance. Promoting appropriate use of PrEP and removing barriers that deter usage is crucial to reducing stigmas and advancing the public health goals of the District.
“PrEP is a safe, reliable, and crucial medication to prevent the contraction of HIV. We need to be promoting its use – not discriminating against people, including LGBTQQIA+ and people of color who are disproportionately affected by HIV, who use this important medication,” said Councilmember Pinto. “I am proud to introduce this legislation to advance public health, reduce stigmas associated with PrEP and HIV, and protect the rights of PrEP users.”
The Removing Barriers and Reducing Stigma to Encourage HIV Prevention Amendment Act of 2023 is co-introduced by Chairman Phil Mendelson and Councilmembers Charles Allen, Christina Henderson, Zachary Parker, Janeese Lewis George, Robert White, Vincent Gray, Anita Bonds, and Brianne Nadeau.