Advocates are arguing the criminalization of sex work in New York is creating a more dangerous environment for those in the business.
Today community members, legislators, and advocates called on lawmakers to decriminalize consensual sex work.
A bill known as the Stop Violence in the Sex Trades Act is in the New York State general assembly for the 3rd time.
It would give more rights to sex workers by decriminalize consensual sex work, clear prior criminal convictions related to the work, but keep laws in place relating to minors or trafficking.
"Sex work needs work, sex work needs work, sex work needs work" could be heard through the halls in the New York Capital today by advocates.
In New York State, adults who consent to sell or buy sex can be criminalized with fines, charges, and jail time.
"There are so many people that do not have economic opportunities" said New Pride Agenda Executive Director Elisa Crespo "do not have the same access that other people have and so they look toward survival sex work, consensual survivor sex work, to put food on the table and to take care of their families."
According to the Sex Trades Act, also known as SVSTA, the criminalization of consensual sex work drives it into an illegal environment where sex workers face increased violence, abuse, exploitation, and are more vulnerable to trafficking.
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