A new government-sponsored bill proposed by the Justice Minister would levy a fine on anyone found guilty of paying for sex in Israel, according to the Times of Israel.
The law is widely being applauded by female lawmakers, who have pushed to criminalize the purchase of sexual services for nearly a decade.
The fine is $420 and if a client is caught again within three years, the fine will double. The accused buyers can either pay the fine, appeal it, or choose to be tried in court–and pay a $4,000 fine if found guilty.
“Today we are sending a message that trafficking women and purchasing prostitution services are out of bounds,” Justice Minister Ayelet Shaked said. “Using prostitution services is morally wrong, offensive and objectifies women’s bodies.”
While sex trafficking is still illegal in Israel, prostitution itself is legal.
The legislation is part of a broader move by Israeli officials to fight prostitution and offer rehabilitation programs for sex workers and their clients.
Read the full story here.
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