Colorado Democrats have now reportedly introduced legislation that would make the Centennial State the first in the nation to fully legalize prostitution, igniting sharp criticism from law enforcement officials and local leaders who warn the move sends the wrong message as crime and trafficking concerns mount.
Senate Bill 97, sponsored by Democrat Senate Majority Whip Nick Hinrichsen, would repeal existing penalties for prostitution, which is currently classified as a petty offense under Colorado law. The bill goes further, allowing activities such as soliciting for prostitution, keeping a place of prostitution, patronizing a prostitute and what is described as “prostitute making display.”
The proposal has drawn immediate backlash from Michael Allen, the district attorney for Colorado’s 4th Judicial District and an unopposed candidate for state attorney general. Allen did not mince words in condemning the measure.
“Coloradans are leaving this state in record numbers because crime is rising and the cost of living is out of control — yet radical Democrats in the legislature are focused on legalizing prostitution,” Allen said in a statement, calling the bill “disgraceful.”
Under the proposed legislation, advertising prostitution and escort services would also be legalized. Language in current law that classifies buildings used for prostitution as public nuisances would be removed. The bill would prevent local governments from enacting ordinances that prohibit prostitution, effectively preempting municipalities from adopting stricter standards.
Supporters argue that criminal penalties create unsafe conditions. The bill states, “Criminalizing prostitution endangers adults who engage in consensual sexual activity. Sex workers deserve clarity and certainty that they can safely conduct business within the state, regardless of the local governing authority.”
Colorado’s proposal would stand apart from other states. Prostitution is legal in certain counties in Nevada. Maine has legalized prostitution while continuing to criminalize paying for sex. Colorado’s bill would remove penalties for both the act itself and related activities, though it explicitly does not permit paying for sex with children or engaging in pimping.
The debate comes as Colorado faces ongoing concerns about human trafficking. The state ranked 13th nationally with 88 human trafficking cases in 2024. Preliminary data show 110 cases in 2025, surpassing the previous record of 107 set in 2023, according to Center Square.
Allen warned that the bill could exacerbate those issues. “Human trafficking is inseparable from violent crime, drug activity, and organized criminal networks,” he said. “Legalizing prostitution will only fuel these dangers and further victimize the most vulnerable among us.”
The legislation is co-sponsored by Democrat Senate Assistant Majority Leader Lisa Cutter and Democrat representatives Lorena García and Rebekah Stewart. The ACLU of Colorado supports the bill, arguing for decriminalization, while several municipalities — including Fountain, Monument and Woodland Park — have voiced opposition, according to Westword.
The measure has been assigned to the Judiciary Committee, which includes Hinrichsen. Democrats hold a 5-2 majority on that committee, though no hearing date has been scheduled. If the bill passes, it would take effect immediately.
Allen urged other Democrats running for attorney general to publicly oppose the measure. “The Democrats running for attorney general must join me in condemning this legislation and the most extreme elements of their party — immediately,” he said. “Colorado deserves better.”
As the debate unfolds, the proposal is shaping up to be a flashpoint in Colorado’s broader conversation over crime, public safety and the direction of state policy.
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