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 Rhode Island, the intentional or reckless transmission of a sexually transmitted disease (STD) is addressed under Rhode Island General Laws Section 11-34-3. This statute makes it a criminal offense to knowingly transmit any STD, including HIV/AIDS, to another person. The law requires that any person who knows that they are infected with an STD must inform any potential sexual partner of their infection before engaging in sexual activity. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges, which may include charges such as assault or battery, depending on the circumstances of the transmission. Additionally, individuals who negligently transmit an STD without informing their partners may face civil liability and could be sued for damages. It is important for individuals in Rhode Island to be aware of their health status and to communicate with sexual partners to prevent the spread of STDs and avoid legal consequences.