In a recent development, House Bill 3098, introduced by Senator Jessica Garvin and Representative Toni Hasenbeck, has sparked a debate as it has the potential to criminalize common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Oklahoma. Experts in the field are worried that rather than curbing the spread of STIs, the bill may exacerbate the problem and deter individuals from seeking testing and treatment.

If approved and signed into law, House Bill 3098 would make the intentional or reckless transmission of STIs a criminal offense. Offenders could face a prison sentence ranging from 2 to 5 years. However, the bill's lack of clarity in defining "reckless" has raised concerns among experts, who believe it could lead to unnecessary lawsuits and prosecutions.

The broad language of the bill is causing experts to fear that it may discourage Oklahomans from getting tested and seeking treatment if they are worried about potential prosecution. Oklahoma currently ranks high in STI prevalence, with it being the 11th highest for chlamydia, the 5th highest for gonorrhea, and the 4th highest for syphilis, according to Jeff Burdge from Hope Testing.

One of the major concerns regarding House Bill 3098 is its potential impact on individuals infected with the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The Oklahoma State Department of Health reveals that approximately 85% of Oklahomans will contract an HPV infection during their lifetime. The National Cancer Institute supports these statistics stating that more than 90% of sexually active men and 80% of sexually active women will have an HPV infection at some point in their lives. This indicates that the bill could potentially classify a large portion of the population as potential felons.

House Bill 3098 managed to pass through the House with 78 votes in favor and only 14 against it. However, the bill is currently pending approval in the Senate. If signed into law, it would take effect on November 1.

This controversial bill has ignited a fierce debate among lawmakers, legal experts, and health professionals in Oklahoma. Critics argue that rather than addressing the root causes and promoting education to curb the spread of STIs, this approach could have unintended consequences. Supporters, on the other hand, believe that criminalizing the deliberate transmission of STIs will deter individuals from engaging in risky behavior.

As it awaits a decision in the Senate, the fate of House Bill 3098 continues to hang in the balance. The discussions surrounding the bill have highlighted the importance of comprehensive sexual health education, accessible testing, and treatment options to effectively combat the prevalence of STIs in Oklahoma and across the nation.