Committee Clears Bipartisan Bill to Allow Sex Workers to Report Crimes Without Facing Prosecution

Legislation aims to provide critical protections for victims of serious and violent crimes

DENVER, CO – The Senate Judiciary Committee yesterday unanimously approved bipartisan legislation sponsored by Senator Rhonda Fields (D-Aurora) that would provide sex workers immunity from prostitution charges when reporting serious, violent crimes to law enforcement. The bill, HB22-1288, would allow safe reporting for sex workers if they witnessed or were a victim of a violent crime.  

“Right now, sex workers across Colorado experience serious crimes, but they often don’t feel comfortable reporting for fear of prosecution,” Fields said. “As we work to make our communities safer, we’re taking action to protect sex workers from violent crime and bring perpetrators to justice. When sex workers courageously report these crimes or seek out emergency services, they will be granted immunity for prostitution charges, which will help create a safer Colorado for all.”

The legislation, co-sponsored by Senator Jim Smallwood (R-Parker), would grant a victim or witness immunity from certain prostitution-related charges if the evidence for the charges was obtained as a result of the victim seeking assistance from a law enforcement officer or emergency services. Under the bill, victims would receive immunity from prosecution when reporting to law enforcement the crimes of human trafficking, stalking, kidnapping, assault, and murder.  

The bill now moves to the Senate floor for further consideration. Track the progress of the bill HERE.