Many States have adopted laws and set policies on the disclosure of AIDS patients' medical information that attempt to balance the need to protect AIDS carriers from discrimination. Policies and procedures for disclosing to third parties that a probationer is an AIDS carrier and a substantial risk to the community are less clear. The probation division of the Administrative Office of the United States Court had advised criminal justice agencies that they should not become involved in public health issues best left to medical professionals. The seven general rules for probation officers include keeping abreast of new findings in AIDS research regarding transmission of the disease; acquiring knowledge of and complying with State and local requirements for AIDS carriers; and being aware of criminal laws that apply to the transmission of AIDS. Other components of the general rules include cooperating closely with public health officials on issues related to disclosure and the counseling and treatment of AIDS patients. Additionally, probation officers should develop strong lines of communication with AIDS patients under their supervision. 8 references.