The bill aims to decriminalize certain commercial sexual activities in Rhode Island, responding to findings from a Special Legislative Study Commission that highlighted the negative health and safety impacts of current laws on marginalized groups, including women, transgender individuals, and people of color. It repeals several sections of existing law related to commercial sexual activity, removing criminal penalties for prostitution and related activities, thereby creating a legal environment where private, consensual sexual activity is no longer criminalized. The bill emphasizes health and safety for sex workers, improving their access to services and justice while ensuring that laws do not disproportionately affect marginalized communities.

In addition to decriminalization, the bill introduces amendments to existing laws concerning child abuse and neglect, redefining "abused or neglected child" to include those subjected to human trafficking offenses. It replaces previous language related to sexual exploitation through prostitution and clarifies definitions related to child welfare. The bill categorizes human trafficking as a racketeering activity and allows for the expungement of specific convictions related to commercial sexual activity after one year. Overall, the proposed changes aim to modernize the legal framework surrounding sex work and human trafficking, focusing on rehabilitation and protection for vulnerable populations.

Statutes affected:
8057: 11-34.1-5, 7-14-2, 7-15-1, 9-17-13, 10-1-5, 40-11-2