Definitions of prostitution

The term "prostitution" generally means the commission by a person of any natural or
unnatural sexual act, deviate sexual intercourse, or sexual contact for monetary
consideration or other thing of value. US Legal
The following is an example of a New Mexico statute defining prostitution:
"Prostitution consists of knowingly engaging in or offering to engage in a sexual act for hire.
As used in this section "sexual act" means sexual intercourse, cunnilingus, fellatio,
masturbation of another, anal intercourse or the causing of penetration to any extent and
with any object of the genital or anal opening of another, whether or not there is any
emission. Whoever commits prostitution is guilty of a petty misdemeanor, unless such crime
is a second or subsequent conviction, in which case such person is guilty of a misdemeanor."

Arguments
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Prostitution has been around since the beginning of mankind. Most anti-prostitution
laws were passed over 100 years ago. It happens every day throughout the world, so
why not make money off it and reduce the risk in it? It is simply two consenting adults
exchanging a service for money. It should not be any more illegal than a plumber or
maid. Also like plumbers, sex workers could also form work unions to gain more rights.

THE PROSTITUTION IS NOT EQUAL TO THE SEXUAL SLAVERY

Criminalizing the acts of selling and buying sexual services does not protect those who
sell or buy such services, but rather pushes these activities underground. While market
exchanges of sexual services involve some risk-taking, the risks are increased and
compounded when such markets are prohibited. When selling and buying sex is
illegal, those participating in these exchanges cannot, or simply do not, seek the
protection of the law when their rights are violated.

In a liberal society, individuals are free to pursue their own vision of happiness, as long
as they respect the moral and civil rights of others. Markets that provide sexual
services enable some individuals to secure goods essential to their happiness. Those
who provide services to these individuals can do so in a manner that respects their
rights and dignity, if the markets are legal and well regulated.

If markets in sex were to become legal, the rights of providers (and clients) to sexual
autonomy would need to be respected. This means that sex workers would maintain
the right to refuse service to any customer, and to discontinue service or employment
at any time and for any reason.

The resources that are currently allocated to arrest, prosecute, and incarcerate sex
workers and clients could be reallocated for better uses. For example, these
resources could be used to better address the sexual abuse of minors, sexual assault,
substance abuse, mental health problems, and the many public and individual needs
that go unmet.