Decriminalize Sex Work (DSW) Legal Director Melissa Broudo, Chief Advocacy Coordinator Henri Bynx, and Staff Attorney Becca Cleary traveled to Providence to testify in support of two important bills before the Rhode Island Senate Judiciary Committee. S2399 would decriminalize consensual adult sex work, and S2157 addresses sexual violence committed by law-enforcement officers.
Staff were joined by a number of other advocates including members of the Boston Sex Workers and Allies Collective (BSWAC) and the Erotic Laborers Alliance of New England (ELA-ONE). Their testimony in support of S2399 highlighted the harms caused by criminalization and the need for policies grounded in public health, safety, and human rights. Advocates described how criminal penalties make sex workers more vulnerable to violence, exploitation, housing instability, and police abuse while discouraging people from reporting crimes or seeking help. They also emphasized that decriminalization would allow consensual adult sex workers to access protections and resources without fear of arrest, while helping distinguish consensual work from trafficking and coercion.
DSW also testified in support of S2157, a bill that would make sexual contact or penetration between an on-duty law-enforcement officer and a detainee, arrestee, person in custody, or suspect a felony offense. Advocates noted that the power imbalance between police officers and people in custody makes meaningful consent impossible and argued that the legislation is necessary to close dangerous loopholes that have historically allowed officers to escape accountability for sexual abuse committed under color of authority. Police Sexual Violence (PSV) is the second-most prevalent form of police violence behind excessive force, but because victims are often hesitant to report their experience, there are likely exponentially more cases than have been documented. Advocates shared powerful personal testimony demonstrating the need for this non-partisan legislation which currently exists in the majority of states.
Together, the two bills highlight the connection between criminalization and vulnerability to abuse. Testimony stressed that policies rooted in punishment and policing frequently increase harm rather than improve safety. Criminalization can isolate sex workers, make reporting violence more dangerous, and create opportunities for exploitation by both clients and law enforcement. Advocates argued that real safety comes from policies centered on bodily autonomy, labor rights, accountability, and access to support services.
DSW was proud to stand alongside local advocates and coalition partners in Rhode Island to push for legislation that prioritizes human rights, public health, and accountability.
