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About The skanner. (Portland, Or.) 1975-2014 | View Entire Issue (May 18, 2011)
news Law Would Increase Punishment for ‘Encounters’ with Underage Prostitutes T he Oregon State House, concurring to amendments made in the Senate, gave final approval for a bill that would impose strict punishments to people who purchased sexual services from sellers who are under the age of 18. The crime of paying for sex with a minor would now punishable with a fine of $10,000 for a first offense and $20,000 for a second offense once HB 2417 is signed by the governor. It also separates the crime of paying for sex and the crime of selling sex. Previously, the state had no way to track how many people had been arrested for being “johns” or for being “prostitutes.” “Victims of sex trafficking should be treated like victims, and those who purchase sex with minors should be treated like the criminals they are,” said Rep. Carolyn Tomei. “This bill makes important changes to make sure Oregon law conforms to that ric. There are two bills in the legislature that try to address this issue, although they would still retain criminal penalties for the It also separates the crime of paying for sex and the crime of selling sex. Previously, the state had no way to track how many people had been arrested for being ‘johns’ or for being ‘prostitutes’ philosophy.” Oregon state law still treats those minors who sell sex as criminals, despite the rheto- The Skanner News Publishes Several Special Editions Throughout the Year Call 503.285.5555 to see Page 10 The Portland and Seattle Skanner may 18, 2011 minor sellers of sexual services. One bill, SB 428, would provide educa- tion to law enforcement to help them recog- nize the fact that these children should be treated as victims. The law would help direct these minors to appropriate shelters. If a law enforcement officer wanted to arrest that child and a district attorney want- ed to charge that child, this law would do nothing from preventing them from doing that. Another bill would seek grants to develop specialized housing and rehabilitation facil- ities for minors who have been arrested for selling sexual services. HB 2417 would also eliminate the defense for a john that he was unaware of the pros- titute’s age. It also mandates a 7 day jail stay for second offenses.
