Requesting The Establishment Of A Working Group To Evaluate New Zealand's Model Of Decriminalizing Prostitution And Make Recommendations On How To Amend Hawaii Laws To Decriminalize Prostitution.
The proposed working group, to be led by a faculty member from the Department of Women, Gender, and Sexual Studies at the University of Hawaii at Manoa, is intended to study various aspects of the New Zealand model. This includes analyzing the effects of decriminalization on public health and safety, as well as the rights and protections of sex workers. The group will also explore the necessary changes to existing laws regarding health and safety regulations, criminal penalties, and labor laws as Hawaii considers moving towards decriminalization.
Senate Resolution 92 (SR92) seeks to establish a working group tasked with evaluating New Zealand’s model of decriminalizing prostitution and making recommendations for similar legislative amendments in Hawaii. Currently, prostitution remains illegal in Hawaii, and this resolution comes in response to growing discussions about the potential benefits of decriminalization for sex workers, their clients, and the broader community. The resolution notes that New Zealand's Prostitution Reform Act 2003 has been in effect for almost two decades, providing a considerable body of research on its impact, which the Hawaii Legislature believes could inform their own approach.
Discussions around SR92 will likely involve various viewpoints on the implications of decriminalization. Proponents argue it could enhance the safety and rights of sex workers, potentially leading to better health outcomes and reducing stigma. However, there might also be concerns regarding law enforcement and community safety, as critics may worry about the potential uptick in related issues stemming from decriminalization. As this resolution progresses, it will be essential for the working group to address these complexities and provide a solid framework for any legislative changes.