What is the law in Illinois regarding perinatal HIV prevention?

The Illinois Perinatal HIV Prevention Act (410 ILCS 335/) aims to eliminate perinatal HIV transmission. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended in 2006 that providers conduct opt-out HIV testing of pregnant people. According to the CDC, before testing, providers should counsel pregnant patients about the benefits of HIV testing, inform them that they will be tested unless they decline, explain how to decline, advise that HIV testing is voluntary, and test the patient for HIV unless they decline. Illinois Public Law 95-702, effective June 1, 2008, implements these guidelines, mandates the counseling before the offer of testing and permits opt-out HIV testing. For additional information about the law, click here