In many states it is a criminal offense to intentionally or recklessly transmit a sexually transmitted disease (STD or venereal disease) to another person. Examples of such diseases include HIV/AIDS, syphilis, gonorrhea, chlamydia, genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), genital warts, and hepatitis B.

Laws vary from state to state, and in some states these laws include other infectious or communicable diseases. In some states there is a specific criminal offense for transmission of sexually transmitted or communicable diseases, and in other states criminal prosecutors charge the defendant with a more general crime like assault.

Laws regarding criminal liability for the intentional or reckless transmission of sexual or other infectious or communicable diseases are generally located in a state’s statutes—often in the penal or criminal code, or the health and safety code.

A person who negligently transmits a sexually transmitted disease to another person through sexual contact—without informing the other person of the offender’s infection before the sexual contact—may also be subject to civil liability for money damages in a lawsuit.

In Hawaii, the intentional or knowing transmission of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) is considered a criminal offense under Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 325-101. This law specifically addresses the transmission of HIV but can also apply to other STDs. A person who is aware that they are infected with HIV and intentionally or knowingly engages in conduct that poses a significant risk of transmission to another person without informing that person of the HIV infection can be charged with a Class A felony if transmission occurs, or a Class C felony if there is no transmission. Additionally, Hawaii law allows for civil liability, meaning that a person who negligently transmits an STD to another person without disclosing their infection status before engaging in sexual contact may be sued for monetary damages. It's important to note that the legal landscape is subject to change, and individuals should consult an attorney for the most current legal advice.