Democrats, activists push to decriminalize sex work in Illinois

If some Democratic lawmakers have their way, sex work in Illinois may no longer be illegal.

A push is underway to implement the full decriminalization of sex work in Illinois and strengthen protections for sex workers in the state. Members of the Sex Worker Advisory Group, or SWAG, said a bill to be filed in the 104th General Assembly that started last week will modernize existing laws and will prioritize the safety, privacy and dignity of adults engaged in consensual sex work. If approved and enacted into law, the measure would also establish a sex workers bill of rights.

Such a measure was not filed as of Monday afternoon.

The group, many of whom identify as transgender, gender diverse, and/or queer, said they have been advocating for over three years to address the unique challenges faced by sex workers in Illinois.

"This bill represents a monumental step forward in recognizing the rights, safety and humanity of sex workers," SWAG chair Reyna Ortiz said. “By passing this legislation, we will make Illinois a safer place for everyone, especially the most vulnerable in our communities."

The measure would establish a sex workers bill of rights, and remove past criminal arrest and conviction records for sex workers.

"Full decriminalization of adult consensual sex work is proven to keep workers safe,” said the bill’s sponsor, state Rep. Will Guzzardi, D-Chicago. “It's a policy that respects everyone's rights to make private choices about their bodies, while freeing up law enforcement to focus on traffickers and violent abusers."

Last week, Guzzardi introduced a bill that passed the Illinois House that would replace the word prostitute with “person engaged in the sex trade.” That piece of legislation can now be sent to the governor for his signature.

Prostitution is illegal in all states except certain parts of Nevada.