Illinois Lawmakers Propose Sex Work Decriminalization Bill

Illinois lawmakers have introduced a bill aimed at fully decriminalizing sex work and establishing a sex workers' bill of rights. Sponsored by State Sen. Celina Villanueva and State Rep. Will Guzzardi, the legislation seeks to remove criminal penalties for consensual paid sex and erase past arrest records for sex workers. Advocates, including Reyna Ortiz of the Sex Worker Advisory Group (SWAG), argue that the current legal framework endangers sex workers by forcing them into the shadows and making them vulnerable to violence. They emphasize that decriminalization would allow sex workers to report crimes without fear and to conduct their work in safer environments. Despite pushback from some lawmakers, supporters believe the bill could significantly improve safety and dignity for sex workers, particularly within marginalized communities. This move positions Illinois potentially as the first state to fully decriminalize sex work, reflecting a growing recognition of the need for reform in this area.