California work safety officials voted against mandatory condom use for porn actors, which were requested to offset the spread of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
Representatives from the porn industry argued that agreeing to a ruling was a slippery slope; how much longer until they’re required to wear goggles or dental dams? They argued it wasn’t as appeasing to their viewers, too. And it may not help deter STDs either; porns reps say if actors refused to use condoms, the industry would shift underground where there would be zero regulations.
Under the current rules, actors are required to be tested for STDs every two weeks. The issue was raised by the Aids Healthcare Foundation, advocating stricter workplace safety rules in porn.
“When you criminalize sex work in any way, you make it more dangerous,” said porn actress and journalist SiouxsieQ.
In spite of the initial ruling, the porn trade association Free Speech Coalition will continue working with officials to create acceptable safety standards.
Condoms are required to be worn in any adult movie filmed in Los Angeles County, approved in 2002. Another upcoming vote in November will determine whether that law will apply across the state.
Photo credit: Purple Anvil/Shutterstock
