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ºÚÁÏÊÓƵ recognizes that human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are serious health problems. To be effective, policies concerning HIV and AIDS must address social trends on campus, in the community and in society at large. These policies must be based on the most up-to-date knowledge and on current governmental and agency regulations, all of which change as new scientific information comes to light.

Binghamton’s policy on HIV and AIDS is designed to assist in efforts to halt transmission of HIV, to protect the rights of all individuals affiliated with the campus and to provide clear and consistent guidance for decision-making by campus administrators when confronted with situations in which HIV or AIDS is a factor.

1. Binghamton’s primary response to HIV/AIDS is educational. The University expects that well-informed individuals will make positive and responsible decisions about their sexual and social behavior. Individuals are expected to interact sensitively, appropriately and compassionately toward persons with HIV/AIDS or perceived to have HIV/AIDS.

   1. The University is committed to a strong educational program regarding the transmission and prevention of HIV/AIDS.

   2. Information about HIV/AIDS is available through recognized campus resources.

   3. The University will not tolerate harassment or discrimination of individuals with HIV/AIDS or of those who are perceived to have or be at risk for HIV/AIDS.

   4. Individuals who harass others will be subject to appropriate University sanctions and/or arrest.

   5. The University will encourage affected individuals to seek and maintain care and, where appropriate, will refer individuals for counseling and other support services.

2. The University supports the rights of individuals with HIV/AIDS to engage in the activities of daily living.

   1. Students needing academic support, and/or reasonable accommodation of disability-related needs, may obtain assistance through the University’s Services for Students with Disabilities Office.

   2. The University will not discriminate against individuals having or perceived as having HIV/AIDS in regard to access to employment, facilities, programs or services.

   3. Employees with HIV/AIDS shall not be denied the opportunity to work as long as they are able to do so. Those who are unable to continue working will be granted the same rights and benefits as employees who have a disability.

   4. Students with HIV/AIDS shall not be denied the opportunity to participate in campus community life, affairs or activities as long as they are able to do so.

3. Individuals with HIV/AIDS shall be accorded the same respect for personal privacy and confidentiality due all members of the University.

   1. The University will protect and maintain confidentiality of individuals with HIV/AIDS, with the proviso that the right to privacy may be limited to public health reporting requirements.

4. HIV antibody testing will not be required by the University.

   1. HIV antibody testing will not be required as a condition of employment or admission, or for participating in any aspect of campus community life, affairs or activities.

   2. The University will support and assist those individuals who themselves consider testing by referring them to the appropriate resources for counseling, testing and related services, including a campus-based confidential HIV testing program.

5. The University is committed to the prevention of HIV-transmission through development of policies and procedures that safeguard campus individuals.

   1. The guidelines and precautions outlined by the Centers for Disease Control of the United States Public Health Service will be considered and followed for any occupational activities or programs of instruction, practice, research or training in which there is a potential risk for exposure of individuals to HIV.