MODERNIZE OUR HIV LAWS

HIV is treatable and preventable due to amazing medical advancements. Yet Maryland's outdated laws - passed in 1989 - continue to punish people living with HIV and create barriers to care. This is wrong, and it harms people in our state.

Having a virus is not a crime. It's time to modernize Maryland's HIV laws.


We Can Create Change

Together, we can modernize Maryland's laws to:


  • End the criminalization of people living with HIV
  • Expand access to prevention medications like PrEP and PEP
  • Support our friends and family living with HIV
  • Help end the HIV epidemic


Make your voice heard!

Pathway to Progress

HIV Pathway to Progress is an impactful, annual event dedicated to raising awareness about HIV and promoting the mission of FreeState Justice, an organization committed to the decriminalization of HIV in Maryland. This event serves as a platform for advocacy, education, and community engagement, bringing together diverse voices from the public health, legal, and LGBTQ+ communities to address the stigma and legal challenges surrounding HIV.

The 2025 Pathway to Progress took place on Friday, January 17th, at Baltimore Center Stage

In the Legislature

Maryland legislators can take action to help end the HIV epidemic. 


This year, legislators have an opportunity to bring about better health outcomes for all Marylanders, increase access to HIV testing, prevention, and treatment, and end the criminalization of people living with HIV. Maryland can be a leader by updating our harmful state law that stigmatizes and punishes people living with HIV, and by expanding access to PrEP and PEP. 

On The Radio

Have you heard our radio ad on the airwaves in the D.C. and Baltimore areas or online? We are proud to help educate the public about the significant advancements in HIV science, prevention, and treatment, and the urgent need to update Maryland’s laws.


Listen Now

Maryland HIV Advocacy

Coalition


FreeState Justice leads the Decriminalization Coalition in Maryland. It is made up of people living with HIV, HIV service providers, and advocates interested in decriminalizing HIV in Maryland.


Join Our Coalition Efforts Here!

HIV in Maryland

HIV In The u.s.

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