Bill > S0278

This bill amends Rhode Island's laws related to prostitution by introducing a new provision that provides immunity from arrest or prosecution for individuals engaged in prostitution under specific circumstances. Specifically, a person cannot be cited, arrested, or prosecuted for prostitution if they: (1) witness or are a victim of a crime and promptly report it to law enforcement in good faith, or assist in the investigation or prosecution of the crime by providing truthful testimony, and (2) the criminal conduct occurred around the same time and is related to the prostitution-related offense. The bill defines a "victim" as someone who has sustained personal injury or property loss directly attributable to another person's criminal conduct. Additionally, the bill maintains existing penalties for prostitution (up to 6 months imprisonment or a fine of $250-$1,000 for first-time offenders, with increased penalties for subsequent offenses) while also preserving existing affirmative defenses for individuals who were forced into commercial sexual activity through threats, physical harm, intimidation, or immigration document manipulation. The legislation is designed to encourage cooperation with law enforcement and provide protection for individuals who might be victims of broader criminal activities while engaging in prostitution.

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