Lawmakers proposed a change to a prostitution statute that they hope will protect sex trafficking victims in the state of Alaska.
The legislation will be introduced in Juneau on Monday, and seeks to amend the current definition of prostitution that is used to charge, try, and convict those engaging in prostitution.
Under AS 11.66.100, prostitution is presently defined as the act of "engaging in, agreeing to, or offering sexual conduct in return for a fee, or offering a fee in return for sexual conduct". Prosecution under the statute is generally defined to encompass any individuals engaged in prostitution, excepting minors, but including potential victims of sex trafficking.
"Currently, in Alaska, anti-sex trafficking statutes may ensnare those who have been trafficked, resulting in the arrests and prosecution of those who were, themselves, victims of sex trafficking," said Senator Berta Gardner in a release. "This creates a system of re-victimization; a prostitute forced into sex work can be subjected to arrest, prosecution and the hardships and stigmas of conviction."
The new amendment would add a clause that would allow accused prostitutes to pursue a verdict of innocence if their participation was compelled through coercion or force.
Along with Senator Gardner, Senators Lesil McGuire, John Coghill, Click Bishop, and Johnny Ellis are listed as sponsors of the bill.