Spreading HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is against the law in 37 states – with penalties ranging up to life in prison Posted byRobin Lennon-Dearing September 22, 2021 Leave a comment on Spreading HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, is against the law in 37 states – with penalties ranging up to life in prison Current HIV criminal laws increase HIV stigma and discrimination against marginalized people – and negatively affect public health.