Currently, those applying for green cards, work visas or entry for other reasons, and are knowingly positive for HIV/AIDS - or test positive upon a mandatory health screening (for a green card, for example) are denied entry if it's found that they are HIV+ or have AIDS. Their work permits will be taken away or their green cards denied, when otherwise would have been granted.
They can also be turned away at customs if they are listed as a person with HIV/AIDS.
President Obama said that the United States is one of a very few countries that have this ban and it's time to lift it. He said that people should not be stigmatized or discriminated against due to their HIV status.
People who agree with the ban believe that HIV+ people may infect others here in the United States or come here specifically to take advantage of the medical resources offered and will be an economic drain on a country already in recession.
The ban will be lifted in the new year.
Tell Us
Do you think it's right to lift this ban? Why? Why not?