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Youth | HIV/AIDS | National/Federal

Because testing, consent and privacy laws vary greatly by state, you should check out our information for your state for the most accurate information.

National/Federal HIV/AIDS Q&A

Discrimination

  • Federal law protects you from discrimination based on your HIV status in many settings, including work and school.
  • This means, for example, you cannot be barred from participation in school events, including sports, due to fears about transmission of HIV.

Access to Health Care

  • Healthcare providers cannot refuse to treat you because of your HIV status.

Testing and Privacy

  • You have a right to decide whether to be tested for HIV, and to know your status.
  • In all six New England states, you have the right to be tested for HIV without obtaining your parent’s permission.
  • Every New England state has a law governing what kind of consent you need to give for an HIV test.
  • Every New England state has a law governing if, when and with what required authorization a medical provider may disclose your HIV status.