Earlier this week, L.A. County supervisors voted to begin free distribution of Truvada to at-risk populations. Public health officials now have 30 days to prepare a plan to implement this progressive program.

Truvada, a pre-exposure prophylactic (PrEP) treatment, has been proven to be 92% effective in preventing HIV infection if taken correctly.

Related: Researchers Say PrEP Is 89% Effective Even When Taken Occasionally

L.A. sees 1,850 new cases of HIV each year, a majority of which are among low-income gay and bisexual men of color, so the plan could have a huge impact on at-risk populations.

"Together with other HIV prevention tools, [Truvada] make it possible for us to dramatically reduce new HIV infections," said supervisor Sheila Kuehl, who proposed the plan.

Michael Weinstein, president of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation, has criticized Truvada, calling it a "party drug" that encourages unsafe sex. He also doubts the efficacy of a free distribution plan, citing the $13,000 cost for a single one-year prescription.

Kuehl, the city's first out gay supervisor, insists there are federal funds available for such a program, and that money will not be funneled from existing funds set up to help people already living with HIV/AIDS.

What do you think of the L.A. County plan?

h/t: LAist