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Bill would decriminalize prostitution in Vermont

Posted at 10:31 AM, Feb 06, 2020
and last updated 2020-02-06 13:31:39-05

MONTPELIER, Vt. – Some Vermont lawmakers hope to make prostitution safer and remove the stigma that often prevents sex workers from seeking police protection and health care.

A bill introduced last month by four female legislators would decriminalize prostitution, while the state would maintain its laws against sex trafficking.

However, the bill's lead sponsor thinks a related proposal will have a better chance at movement this year.

That bill would give immunity to people who were victims of or witnessed a crime while engaged in prostitution or sex trafficking so they can report it to law enforcement.

The push in Vermont is part of a small but growing movement to decriminalize prostitution.

Right now, Nevada is the only state in the U.S. to allow some legal prostitution.