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Pahrump Today
By the People, for the People
Nevada Sex Workers Seek Unionization for Safe Workplaces
Sheri's Ranch workers file petition to become first unionized brothel in US
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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Sex workers at Sheri's Ranch, a licensed brothel in rural Nevada, have filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board to become the first unionized brothel workers in the United States. The petition, submitted under the name United Brothel Workers and represented by the Communications Workers of America, comes after the brothel's management introduced a new independent-contractor agreement that workers say threatens their livelihoods and control over their image.
Why it matters
Nevada is the only state in the US where prostitution is legal, but only in licensed brothels within ten rural counties. The unionization effort at Sheri's Ranch highlights the ongoing debate around the labor rights and protections for sex workers, as well as concerns over exploitation and control of their personal brands and likenesses.
The details
The new independent-contractor agreement grants Sheri's Ranch broad rights to use the workers' likenesses without consent, even after they cease working at the establishment. Workers allege the agreement could lead to situations where 'one day you're the face of a Japanese lubricant brand or an AI-companion site, and you never see a penny.' The dispute escalated after the alleged termination of three workers and threats of further dismissals to those who refused to sign the new contract.
- The petition was submitted last week.
- The new independent-contractor agreement was introduced in December.
The players
United Brothel Workers
The group of sex workers at Sheri's Ranch who filed the petition to unionize, represented by the Communications Workers of America.
Sheri's Ranch
A licensed brothel in rural Nevada, one of the oldest and most well-known establishments where prostitution is legal in the state.
Jupiter Jetson
A performer at Sheri's Ranch who requested her legal name be withheld due to fears of harassment.
Molly Wilder
Another worker at Sheri's Ranch who expressed concern that the contract terms could hinder her future opportunities.
Barb Brents
A Nevada sex-industry scholar who notes that the workers are currently classified as independent contractors, a designation that limits their labor protections.
What they’re saying
“We wish the same things that any other worker wants— a safe and respectful workplace.”
— Jupiter Jetson, Performer at Sheri's Ranch
“This could trap me in the industry while I'm trying to fund student loans.”
— Molly Wilder, Worker at Sheri's Ranch
“In our dream scenario, we would be recognized as employees to gain full bargaining power.”
— Jupiter Jetson, Performer at Sheri's Ranch
What’s next
As of February 14, 2026, the National Labor Relations Board has not yet ruled on the petition. Sheri's Ranch management has not publicly commented on the unionization effort or the specific terms of the new contract.
The takeaway
The unionization effort at Sheri's Ranch highlights the ongoing debate around labor rights and protections for sex workers, as well as concerns over exploitation and control of their personal brands and likenesses. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for the sex work industry in Nevada and potentially beyond.
