Is Prostitution Legal in Hillsboro, Oregon?
No, prostitution is illegal in Hillsboro under Oregon Revised Statutes 167.007. Engaging in or soliciting sex work is a Class A misdemeanor, punishable by up to 1 year in jail or $6,250 in fines. Hillsboro Police Department (HPD) conducts regular sting operations targeting online solicitation.
Oregon categorizes prostitution-related offenses into three tiers: solicitation, promoting prostitution (e.g., pimping), and trafficking. While Portland prioritizes diversion programs, Hillsboro enforces stricter arrests. Recent debates focus on decriminalization models like New York’s STOP Act to reduce violence against workers.
What Are the Penalties for Soliciting a Sex Worker in Hillsboro?
First-time solicitation charges typically result in 30 days in jail, mandatory “john school” classes, and registration on Oregon’s sex offender list if minors are involved. Repeat offenders face felony charges. HPD collaborates with Washington County District Attorney’s Office to prosecute clients via platforms like SkipTheGames.
Where Can Sex Workers Access STI Testing in Hillsboro?
Planned Parenthood (1673 SE Tiffany Ave) offers confidential, sliding-scale STI testing. Virginia Garcia Memorial Health Center provides free HIV screenings and PrEP. Both locations distribute harm reduction kits with condoms, naloxone, and safety whistles.
Street-based workers face elevated risks: 68% report client violence in Washington County (2023 DOJ data). Organizations like Path Home provide emergency housing. Always use buddy systems and encrypted apps like Signal for client screening.
How to Report Violence or Trafficking Anonymously?
Call the National Human Trafficking Hotline (888-373-7888) or HPD’s tip line (503-615-6500). SWOP PDX’s “Bad Date List” logs violent clients. For legal aid, Oregon Law Center files restraining orders at no cost.
What Organizations Support Sex Workers in Hillsboro?
SWOP PDX leads advocacy, offering legal clinics, bail funds, and lobbying for decriminalization. Rose City Justice provides exit programs with job training. Health departments partner with these groups for outreach vans distributing naloxone.
Could Prostitution Be Decriminalized in Oregon?
Senate Bill 564 (2025) proposes adopting the “Nordic Model,” criminalizing buyers but not sellers. Opponents argue full decriminalization (like Nevada’s brothel system) reduces exploitation. Hillsboro’s city council remains divided, citing neighborhood complaints.