Michigan is one of several states
with a confidentiality law that protects HIV and AIDS-related information from
disclosure by anybody, even if they are not health care providers. This law,
called the HIV confidentiality law, only works if people know about it.
Note from Kendra: The Shut UP!
Project was named by GS, who is one of my heroes and I miss her every day. The
Shut UP! Project was
invented at Michigan Advocates Exchange in 2001 with support from the Colin
Higgins Foundation, and when MAX closed
in 2004 it seemed that the Project would just fade into memory. But it worked so
well and was so effective, that I've finally had more requests for an update
than I can stand. So here you go, with love from KK and GS. Print these out,
spread 'em around, and let's make Michigan a little quieter.
Your
HIV Status is Your Private Business This article explains some of
the legal rights and responsibilities that come along with being
HIV-positive in Michigan. The Michigan HIV confidentiality law is unique
to Michigan, but this article could easily be adapted for other states,
and we are willing to share. If you are a non-Michigan attorney and will
draft something like this for your state, let us know and we'll post your
link here. (this is a two-page Adobe-readable PDF file)
Talking
About Someone Else's HIV Status is a Bad Idea This article can
be given or mailed to a Blabber who is talking out of turn. It explains
the penalties of violating Michigan's HIV confidentiality law, and points
out that protecting HIV confidentiality is a public health concern. (this is
a two-page
Adobe-readable PDF file)
The law office of Kendra
S. Kleber & associates pllc
Social
Security disability benefits assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS.
Nationwide.
(c)
2004-2008 Kendra S. Kleber & Associates PLLC. Information in this message
and on this website is not legal advice, or an offer to create an
attorney-client relationship. Consult an attorney who is familiar with the law
and the facts of your situation before making decisions about your legal rights.
Remember, it is better to retain an attorney you did not need than to need an
attorney you did not retain.
