Prostitution — to Regulate or to Eliminate?

The Kentucky Youth Assembly has brought many new ideas to the table in regards to bills and legislature. From improving air quality standards to voting rights, the delegates of KYA have taught their peers and educated them about various topics.

However, a bill from Boyd County High School has delved deep into topic ideas, perhaps even controversial ones. The bill relates to prostitution, specifically legalizing prostitution in the state of Kentucky.

“Yes, this bill is controversial,” said bill sponsor Havanna Kirk. “Yet we believe that we should keep all people safe, regardless of one’s beliefs.”

Sadie Evans, a bluegrass delegate from Meade County High School, spoke in favor of this bill.

“I’m for this bill for a number of reasons,” stated Evans. “It will decrease STD rates, rape, and abuse.”

Another bluegrass delegate, Anjali Solankhi from Kentucky Country Day, spoke in opposition.

“I strongly urge you to vote against this bill because by normalizing the act of buying sex, it debases men by assuming that they’re entitled to the access of women’s bodies for sexual gratification,” said Solankhi. “If paying for sex is normalized, then young boys will think that women are used to be bought and sold.”

When asked about why this bill is important, Kirk said, “Prostitution is one of the most dangerous occupations, and we’re trying to cut back on the danger that it puts everyone involved in.”