Two Palau lawmakers are opposing a bill that would ban the sale and distribution of contraceptives.
Senators Alfonso Diaz and Surangel Whipps Junior both say that while they agree that there is a need to increase the number of people in Palau, they don't see a ban on contraceptives as the best way to reach that goal.
They point out that banning contraceptives would make the people of Palau susceptible to HIV/AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.
The bill to ban the sale and distribution of contraceptives was introduced and passed by the Palau Senate on first reading during its recent session.
The author of the bill, Senator Hokkons Baules says his bill is aimed at increasing Palau's population.
Palau has a population of 20,789 which is growing at a rate of 0.3 percent.
If passed the bill will impose a 500 US dollar fine or imprisonment for three months for violations.
