Mandating Condoms in Films Will Put Industry More at Risk, Forbes Opinion Says

LOS ANGELES — The adult entertainment business already is doing an excellent job protecting its performers and that any law mandating condoms in films would lead to “unintended consequences” that could hike up outbreaks, says a Forbes opinion piece written by a Reason Foundation research fellow.

The published piece in Forbes.com was a reaction to a symposium and press conference sponsored by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and other organizations.

The groups announced plans Friday to develop a strategy that will push California legislation to regulate the adult film industry by mandating the use of condoms in all movies.

“Mandating condoms in all films would lead to unintended consequences that would likely increase, not decrease, HIV outbreaks,” said Forbes columnist Alexandre Padilla, who is an assistant professor of economics at the Metropolitan State College of Denver.

“The reality is that, since the adult film industry implemented its HIV testing policy, all but four performers who tested positive for HIV contracted HIV outside the industry,” Padilla said. “The threat does not come from inside the industry but from outside.

“The costs and consequences of adopting a condom-only regulation far outweigh any benefits. The adult industry has done an excellent job policing and testing itself,” he said.

“The government is likely to do more harm than good to the health of both porn performers and the general public if it meddles in adult entertainment.

Copyright © 2026 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More News

Final Defendant Sentenced in GirlsDoPorn Case

Former adult producer Doug Wiederhold, previously a business partner of GirlsDoPorn owner Michael Pratt, was sentenced on Friday in federal court to four years in prison for conspiracy to commit sex trafficking.

Connie Perignon Fronts Latest From Brazzers

Connie Perignon stars with Abigaiil Morris and Kira Noir in the latest release from Brazzers, titled "Fast Food Fight & Fuck."

Bella Bare Makes Her WIFEY Debut

Bella Bare stars with her husband The Remedy, Chocolate Rod, and Richard Mann in the latest release from Vixen Media Group studio imprint WIFEY.

FTC Takes Another Step Toward New 'Click to Cancel' Rule

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is negotiating the latest procedural hurdle in its effort to renew rulemaking concerning negative option plans, after a federal court previously vacated a “click-to-cancel” rule aimed at making it easier for consumers to cancel online subscriptions.

Mandii Rose Makes Her MYLF Debut

Mandii Rose has made her MYLF debut alongside Axel Haze in the studio’s latest release.

Pineapple Support, Brazzers to Host 'Navigating Relationships' Support Group

Pineapple Support and Brazzers are hosting a free online support group for performers to build and maintain healthy relationships.

Aylo, SWOP Behind Bars to Host 'Deplatforming' Community Panel

Aylo and Sex Workers Outreach Project (SWOP) Behind Bars will host a panel on creators’ rights and deplatforming on Feb. 10 at 3 p.m. (EST).

Bobbii Rose Makes Her TransAngels Debut

Bobbii Rose has made her TransAngels debut opposite Chad Dorado in the studio’s latest release, titled “Furry Fantasy.”

Greta Foss, Sofia Smith Topline Angelo Godshack's 'Angels of Hardcore 4'

Greta Foss and Sofia Smith headline director Angelo Godshack’s “Angels of Hardcore 4,” from Evil Angel.

Adult Trade Group Pearl Industry Network to Debut at Taboo Vancouver

Pearl Industry Network (PiN), a new trade group for the adult industry focused on content creators, will debut at Taboo Vancouver adult lifestyle and wellness expo next week.

Show More