In a move aimed at safeguarding vulnerable individuals, Maine Governor Janet Mills recently signed legislation that partially decriminalizes prostitution. This new law eliminates the criminal offense of engaging in prostitution while simultaneously strengthening penalties for those who exploit others for commercial sexual gain. Specifically, soliciting a child for commercial sexual exploitation is now elevated to a felony carrying a maximum five-year prison sentence.

Representative Lois Reckitt, the bill's sponsor and a long-time advocate for victims of domestic abuse, championed the legislation as a crucial step towards aiding those forced into sex trafficking due to difficult circumstances. Reckitt, who also serves as the director of Family Crisis Services in Portland, highlighted the importance of differentiating between those trapped in exploitative situations and those who perpetuate the harm.

This signing comes two years after Governor Mills vetoed a similar bill. Advocates for the new law emphasize its focus on protecting vulnerable individuals from exploitation. They argue that the previous criminalization of prostitution disproportionately affected marginalized communities and often led to further trauma for those involved in the sex trade.

Lauren Hersh, national director of World Without Exploitation, praised Maine's approach as a model for other states. Hersh believes this legislation provides a pathway to decriminalizing survivors while holding perpetrators responsible for the harm they inflict.

Tricia Grant, a survivor of sexual exploitation in Maine, expressed pride in the state's adoption of the law. Grant echoed the sentiment that accountability should rest with the exploiters and abusers, not the exploited individuals. She believes this legislation acknowledges the complex realities of sex trafficking and offers a more effective approach to addressing the issue.