Prostitution Control in America: Rethinking Public Policy

Abstract

Examination of policies regarding prostitution in the United States, including criminalization, decriminalization, and an alternative recommended by the author, a "two-track policy" involving continued enforcement against street prostitution (coupled with greater municipal support services to help street prostitutes exit) and de facto decriminalization of indoor prostitution. It is argued that the two-track policy has advantages over blanket criminalization of all types of prostitution in that it involves more efficient use of the criminal justice system, is consistent with public preferences, and satisfies the harm-reduction principle.