Illinois state lawmakers propose legalizing consensual sex work

Illinois is on the verge of potentially becoming the first state to fully decriminalize sex work among consenting adults. Lawmakers are advocating for legislation that would eliminate criminal penalties related to consensual prostitution, indicating a significant shift from previous measures. In 2013, the state had already downgraded prostitution to a misdemeanor, yet many sex workers and their clients still find themselves operating underground due to lingering fears of prosecution.

Proponents of the new legislation, including Illinois State Senator Robert Peters, emphasize that decriminalization could greatly enhance the safety of sex workers. By bringing these transactions into the open, sex workers would be better equipped to vet clients, report crimes, and choose their working environments without the looming threat of legal repercussions. Advocates believe that such changes will help protect sex workers from violence and exploitation.

Additionally, the proposed legislation seeks to expunge past arrest and conviction records for sex workers, while establishing a "sex workers’ bill of rights." Illinois State Representative Will Guzzardi stated that sex workers deserve the same protections as anyone else in their line of work. The aim is to create a legal framework where consensual exchanges of sex for money are not subject to criminal penalties, while still maintaining strict laws against trafficking and abuse.

Reyna Ortiz, chair of the Sex Worker Advisory Group, highlighted the dangers that sex workers face while operating in a criminalized environment. Drawing from her two decades of experience in sex work, she explained the constant fear of arrest and violence that many endure. Ortiz emphasized that the transaction is consensual and often misunderstood, advocating for a society that respects these agreements without the threat of criminalization.

While the specifics of the Illinois legislation, including implementation and regulatory measures, remain unclear, supporters plan to officially introduce the proposal in the Illinois General Assembly this week. The move follows a broader trend, as Maine recently became the first state to decriminalize the sale of sex, although purchasing such services remains illegal in most of the United States.