Washington Code 70.24.027 – Intentional transmission of HIV — Penalties
Current as of: 2023 | Check for updates
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(1) It is unlawful for a person who knows that he or she has HIV to have sexual intercourse if:
Attorney's Note
Under the Washington Code, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:| Class | Prison | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| gross misdemeanor | up to 364 days | up to $5,000 |
Terms Used In Washington Code 70.24.027
- person: may be construed to include the United States, this state, or any state or territory, or any public or private corporation or limited liability company, as well as an individual. See Washington Code 1.16.080
(a) The person has been counseled by a health care provider or public health professional regarding the risk of transmitting HIV to others;
(b) The partner or partners exposed to HIV through sexual intercourse did not know that the person had HIV; and
(c) The person intended to transmit HIV to the partner.
(2) It is a defense to a prosecution under this section if:
(a) HIV was not transmitted to the partner; or
(b) The person took or attempted to take practical means to prevent transmission of HIV.
(3)(a) Except as provided in (b) of this subsection, violation of this section is a misdemeanor punishable as provided in RCW 9A.20.021.
(b) Violation of this section is a gross misdemeanor punishable as provided in RCW 9A.20.021 if the person knowingly misrepresented his or her infection status to the partner.
(c) Violation of this section does not require registration under RCW 9A.44.130, unless the partner is a child or vulnerable adult victim.
(4) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:
(a) “Practical means to prevent transmission” means good faith employment of an activity, behavior, method, or device that is scientifically demonstrated to measurably reduce the risk of transmitting a sexually transmitted disease, including but not limited to: The use of a condom, barrier protection, or other prophylactic device; or good faith participation in a treatment regimen prescribed by a health care provider or public health professional.
(b) “Sexual intercourse” has its ordinary meaning and occurs upon any penetration, however slight, of the vagina or anus of one person by the sexual organs of another whether such persons are of the same or another sex.
[ 2020 c 76 § 5.]