State Lawmakers Looking To Decriminalize Prostitution as Migrant-Fueled ‘Red Light Districts’ Proliferate Across New York City   

Critics are concerned that decriminalizing sex work will encourage the industry to grow quicker than can be regulated by the legislature.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images
A sex shop on Eighth Avenue at New York City. Spencer Platt/Getty Images
M.J. KOCH
M.J. KOCH

Albany Democrats are eyeing a bill to decriminalize prostitution, as sex trafficking and open-air prostitution markets are on the rise throughout New York City since the influx of migrants desperate for work began three years ago. 

Have an account? Log In

To continue reading, please select:

Limited Access

Enter your email to read for FREE

Get 1 FREE article

Continue with
or
Unlimited Access

Join the Sun for a PENNY A DAY

$0.01/day for 60 days

Cancel anytime

100% ad free experience

Unlimited article and commenting access

Full annual dues ($120) billed after 60 days

By continuing you agree to our
Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
Advertisement
The New York Sun

© 2025 The New York Sun Company, LLC. All rights reserved.

Use of this site constitutes acceptance of our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. The material on this site is protected by copyright law and may not be reproduced, distributed, transmitted, cached or otherwise used.

The New York Sun

Sign in or  Create a free account

or
By continuing you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use