The bill is a response to the findings of the "Special Legislative Study Commission Ensuring Racial Equity and Optimizing Health and Safety Laws Affecting Marginalized Individuals," which recommended changes to laws affecting sex work. It proposes to repeal sections of the General Laws in Chapter 11-34.1 entitled "Commercial Sexual Activity," removing criminal penalties and definitions related to prostitution and associated activities. The bill aims to decriminalize engaging in, agreeing to, or offering to engage in sexual conduct for a fee, and to remove penalties for loitering for prostitution. It also seeks to eliminate provisions related to pandering, permitting prostitution, and the seizure and forfeiture of proceeds from prostitution.

The bill also proposes changes to laws regarding the examination and treatment of venereal diseases and HIV among convicted individuals, eliminating mandatory HIV testing and associated reporting requirements. It introduces new sections and amends existing laws to focus on human trafficking and the protection of individuals' rights post-conviction. The bill redefines "nuisance" and modifies law enforcement authority regarding nuisances, repeals immunity for minors involved in prostitution due to victimization, and changes the chapter on HIV/AIDS to align with other statutes. It also mandates blood tests for sexually transmitted diseases for individuals convicted of sexual offenses involving penetration upon the petition of the victim or their family. Additionally, the bill revises the definition of "abused or neglected child" to include those subjected to human trafficking and establishes a community correctional program for women offenders. It removes additional financial penalties for prostitution-related offenses and states that the act would take effect upon passage.

Statutes affected:
2934: 11-34.1-5, 7-14-2, 7-15-1, 9-17-13, 10-1-5, 40-11-2, 42-56-20.3