Bill > HB2526

This bill, concerning prostitution, amends existing laws to redefine and penalize the act of patronizing a person for prostitution, which now includes paying or agreeing to pay a fee or provide anything of value for sexual conduct. It establishes escalating penalties for patronizing, with a gross misdemeanor for a first offense, but a class C felony for subsequent offenses after April 1, 2026. Importantly, it introduces significant fees for those convicted, entering plea agreements, or receiving deferred sentences or diversion agreements for prostitution-related offenses, with the amounts increasing based on prior offenses, ranging from $3,000 to $10,000. The revenue generated from these fees is largely directed to community-based, survivor-led organizations providing rehabilitative services, with a small portion going to the department of commerce for reporting. The bill also modifies the penalties for prostitution itself, prioritizing referral to services for first and second offenses, while making third and subsequent offenses a misdemeanor, and elevates assault against a person engaged in prostitution to a class C felony, while prohibiting arrests for prostitution when law enforcement is responding to or investigating other crimes. The bill takes effect on April 1, 2026, and is declared an emergency measure.

Budget and Finance, Housing and Urban Affairs

https://app.leg.wa.gov/billsummary?BillNumber=2526&Year=2025&Initiative=false