Adult Film Actors Demand Stronger Protection Against HIV

OAKLAND (KCBS) -- Some adult-film performers were in Oakland Monday, talking about the need for creating a stronger state law to protect them from HIV and other infectious diseases.

When an adult-film performer recently tested positive for HIV in the San Fernando Valley, the area fueling the multi-billion dollar porn industry, it brought back memories of the HIV porn industry outbreak of 2004. Cal OSHA senior safety engineer Deborah Gold said there is a state law in place protecting workers from exposure to blood or potentially infectious material, but it may be not specific enough for porn actors.

KCBS' Dave Padilla Reports: 

She said the goal is to provide language within the law that specifically targets the adult film industry so there is no question about health and safety regulations. Former porn actress Shelly Lubben said this is a very serious issue.

"There are people dying," she said. "Over 100 porn stars have died from AIDS."

Cal OSHA officials say it could take a minimum of one to two years before any changes are made to revise the state law.

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