Lawmaker proposes studying whether to decriminalize sex work

By: Associated Press

 

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PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) _ A state lawmaker in Rhode Island has proposed creating a legislative commission to look at decriminalizing prostitution.     

 

The House Judiciary Committee is currently considering the proposal by Democratic Rep. Anastasia Williams, of Providence.     

 

She wants to create a special legislative commission to study the health and safety impact of revising commercial sexual activity laws, which would include looking at the impact of decriminalizing prostitution. The resolution states that criminalization of prostitution disproportionately impacts women, transgender people and people of color.     

 

A group that advocates for sex workers, COYOTE, or Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics, endorsed the effort. It says decriminalization would improve the health and safety of sex workers in Rhode Island.     

 

If the commission is created, it would report its findings to the House of Representatives next year.