VT S0054

Repeals 13 V.S.A. chapter 59, subchapter 2, which prohibits prostitution including "indiscriminate sexual intercourse" and consensual sex work for hire by adults

Retains existing felony criminal penalties under 13 V.S.A. chapter 60 for human trafficking involving minors under 18 or adults compelled through force, fraud, or coercion

Human trafficking penalties remain in place ranging from up to 5 years imprisonment for facilitation to mandatory 20 years to life for aggravated trafficking

Cites a 2018 Johns Hopkins meta-analysis of over 130 studies finding criminalization of sex work is associated with increased violence, HIV risk, and reduced health outcomes for sex workers

Takes effect upon passage