New legislation in Vermont would decriminalize prostitution in the state in an attempt to protect sex workers.

The new bill does not affect legislation against sex trafficking but decriminalizes prostitution so that sex workers can seek medical assistance or help from the police without fearing jail time. State Rep. Selene Colburn, a member of the Vermont Progressive Party who introduced the bill, also included a provision that requires the formation of a panel that would work to modernize Vermont’s legislation on prostitution.