Burlington City Council approves decriminalizing prostitution

BURLINGTON | The Burlington City Council unanimously approved a resolution to decriminalize prostitution, according to a report first published by Vermont Daily July 13. The online report noted that a city resolution was approved July 12 and stated that "decriminalization will make both prostitute and customer safer, (and) will reduce the spread of HIV..." The council also noted decriminalization will keep LGBTQ sex workers from being jailed. The resolution intends to repeal the city charter portion stating "to restrain and suppress houses of ill fame and disorderly houses, and to punish common prostitutes and persons consorting therewith." The council's Charter Change Committee wants a repeal of this section, and possible amendments, "to protect those persons engaging in sex work, including the possibility of decriminalization, with a report back and recommendation to the full City Council by Sept. 27, 2021." The council committee also noted that internationally, there have been increasing calls for decriminalization. "...Following examination into the human rights of sex workers in four countries, Amnesty International called for all countries to fully decriminalize sex work," the council resolution states. The Vermont Daily report also noted that H268, a Vermont House bill relating to human trafficking and prostitution, is now in the House Judiciary Committee under review. Supporters of the House bill contend that the illegality of prostitution is, at its root, racist. The bill's primary sponsors include Democrats and Progressives: Rep. Selene Colburn (P-Chiitheden 6-4), Rep. Maxine Grad (D-Washington 7), Rep. Katherine Donnally (D-Lamoille-2), and Rep. John Killacky (D-Chittenden-7-3), among others.

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Burlington City Council approves decriminalizing prostitution

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