SAN FRANCISCO — The cloud of dust has settled over AB 1576, the piece of legislation that would have required mandatory condom usage on adult film sets in California.
The bill, sponsored by the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and authored by Assemblyman Isadore Hall, died Thursday in the state Senate Appropriations Committee after legislators voted to not move it out of committee, essentially killing it.
But will it, or something like it, be back?
"We are reviewing all options," AHF President Michael Weinstein told XBIZ. "If Cal/OSHA acts quickly on regulations then legislation is not necessary."
Weinstein was referring to a draft proposal that would amend California Code of Regulations Title 8, Section 5193, and mandate barrier protection, including condoms, to shield performers from contact with bloodborne pathogens, or other potentially infectious material during the production of films.
Weinstein, however, said that if Cal/OSHA doesn't approve a draft that specifically addresses sexually transmitted pathogens in the adult entertainment industry, he may go the route that worked in Los Angeles County with Measure B.
"If all else fails, the 2016 ballot box is an option," said Weinstein, referring to a new statewide porn-condom initiative.
The AHF's leader noted that his organization moved the porn-condom legislation farther along in this session than any previous year.
Hall spokesman Terry Schanz declined to answer XBIZ queries whether the assemblyman would reconstitute AB 1576 into another bill or push it forward as-is next term.
In response to Weinstein's comments, Kink.com CEO Peter Acworth said he's ready for discussion that will put the issue at rest in California.
"I want to make it clear that whatever has happened in the past, our doors are open," Acworth told XBIZ on Tuesday.
"I hope that Weinstein/AHF will review their position and that we can begin honest, constructive dialogue with performers, producers and the wider HIV-serving community, based on facts."
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