Rep. Thanedar Calls For National Decriminalization Of Sex Work

India-West News Desk

WASHINGTON, DC – In light of recent findings from the House Ethics Committee regarding Republican Representative Matt Gaetz, Democratic Congressman Shri Thanedar is advocating for the decriminalization of sex work nationwide. Thanedar, took to Twitter on January 2 to call for sex workers to be granted legal protections, enabling them to report abuse and crimes to law enforcement without fear of prosecution.

Thanedar argued that decriminalizing sex work would not only protect sex workers but also contribute to efforts to prevent the trafficking and exploitation of minors. “We should decriminalize sex work to maximize sex workers’ legal protection and their ability to exercise other rights, including unionization, justice, and health care. Decriminalization and regulation would prevent trafficking and exploitation of minors,” he wrote in a Twitter post.

The congressman further emphasized that decriminalization would also empower sex workers to report crimes committed against them, ensuring their voices are heard and protected.

Currently, sex work is legal in only one state—Nevada—and is highly regulated. A 2023 report revealed that fewer than two dozen businesses operate legally within the state.

Thanedar’s comments came in response to the House Ethics Committee’s report on Gaetz, which alleged that the Florida congressman violated state statutory rape laws and paid women for sex during his time in office between 2017 and 2020. One woman, interviewed by the committee, claimed she had sex with Gaetz at the age of 17 and was paid $400, which she understood to be payment for sexual activity.

Thanedar’s call for national decriminalization of sex work adds to the growing debate over how to protect the rights and safety of sex workers while addressing exploitation and abuse.

Also Read: Rep.Thanedar Faces Online Vitriol After Supporting H1-B Program