RI Senate OKs ban of indoor prostitution

The Rhode Island Senate has passed a bill outlawing indoor prostitution.

Lawmakers approved the measure late Thursday, saying it gives law enforcement the tools necessary to prosecute indoor prostitution because current law only prohibits soliciting sex outside.

The bill, which now goes to the House, would fine first-time offenders $250. Subsequent violations would carry tougher penalties.

It would also be a misdemeanor for landlords and property owners to allow prostitution on their premises. That offense would carry a fine of up to $1,000.

Similar legislation passed the House in May by a 62-8 vote.

Civil libertarians and a women's group have opposed the bill, saying closing the legal loophole that allows indoor prostitution would harm victims of human trafficking.