(1) The general assembly declares that: (a) Sexually transmitted infections, regardless of the mode of transmission, impact the public health of the state and are a matter of statewide concern; (b) Coloradans have a right to receive accurate, confidential, and timely information to make informed decisions that promote their individual physical and mental health and well- being. This right applies to all Coloradans, regardless of geographic location, ethnic or racial background, income, ability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, or sexual orientation. (c) Positive, stigma-free messages and comprehensive, evidence-based information must be available to create healthy, safe relationships and a healthier Colorado; and (d) It is the responsibility of any individual who has knowledge or reasonable grounds to suspect that he or she has a sexually transmitted infection to not intentionally transmit the infection to another individual. (2) The general assembly further declares that: (a) Reporting sexually transmitted infections to public health agencies is essential to enable a better understanding of the scope of exposure and the impact of the exposure on the community and to optimize means of sexually transmitted infection control; (b) Efforts to control sexually transmitted infections include public education, counseling, voluntary testing, linkage to treatment, prevention, and access to services; (c) Restrictive enforcement measures may be used only when necessary to protect the public health; (d) Having a sexually transmitted infection, being presumed to have one, or seeking testing for the presence of such an infection must not serve as the basis for discriminatory actions or prevent access to services; and (e) It is the policy of the state to encourage voluntary testing for sexually transmitted infections and promote linkage to care without perpetuating stigma. (3) Therefore, the general assembly further declares that the purpose of this part 4 is to protect the public health, empower individuals to take personal responsibility for their sexual health, and to prevent infections that may be sexually transmitted.
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