Bill > H0190

This bill proposes to repeal Vermont's existing prostitution laws, which were adopted over 100 years ago, and modernize the state's approach to sex work. The legislation aims to decriminalize voluntary, consensual sex work between adults while maintaining strict prohibitions and criminal penalties for human trafficking. The bill acknowledges research showing that criminalization of sex work increases risks of violence, sexually transmitted infections, and disrupts workers' safety networks. Specifically, the bill retains severe criminal penalties for trafficking offenses, including recruiting, transporting, or compelling individuals into commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion. The definition of coercion is comprehensive, covering threats of harm, manipulation, debt bondage, withholding documents or resources, and other forms of psychological and physical pressure. Penalties for human trafficking range from five years to mandatory life imprisonment for aggravated cases, with special protections for minors. The legislation reflects a shift towards recognizing personal autonomy and reducing harm for sex workers by removing criminal sanctions for consensual adult sex work while maintaining robust protections against exploitation.

Justice

https://legislature.vermont.gov/bill/status/2026/H.190