Colorado Bill Would Legalize Prostitution

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Colorado Democrats have introduced a bill that would make the Centennial State the first to fully legalize prostitution. Senate Bill 97, sponsored by Democrat Senate Majority Whip Nick Hinrichsen, would repeal penalties for prostitution and allow for activities like soliciting for prostitution and keeping a place of prostitution. The bill has faced strong opposition from Colorado's 4th Judicial District Attorney Michael Allen, who called it "disgraceful" and warned it would fuel human trafficking and organized crime.

Why it matters

Colorado has seen a rise in human trafficking cases in recent years, ranking 13th in the nation with 88 cases in 2024. Opponents argue that legalizing prostitution would further endanger vulnerable individuals and empower criminal networks, while proponents say it would provide clarity and safety for sex workers.

The details

The legislation would remove language classifying buildings used for prostitution as public nuisances and would not allow for any local laws prohibiting prostitution. It does not allow paying for sex with children or pimping. The ACLU of Colorado supports the bill, but some towns like Fountain, Monument, and Woodland Park are opposing it. The bill has been assigned to the Judiciary Committee, which includes the bill's sponsor, and Democrats hold a 5-2 majority on the committee.

• Colorado ranked 13th in the nation with 88 human trafficking cases in 2024.
• Preliminary data show the state had 110 cases in 2025, surpassing its previous record of 107 in 2023.

What’s next

The bill has been assigned to the Judiciary Committee, which includes the bill's sponsor, and Democrats hold a 5-2 majority on the committee. A hearing date has not been set yet.