Re:Are you serious about legalizing prostitution in California? REALLY SERIOUS?

EE, this a subject which could launch me into a prolonged tirade about those stupid laws and the sneaky little predators we call LE. But, addressing your suggestion for a PAC; I really believe it would never attract many participants for the very good reason that joining such an effort would be tantamount to "outing" oneself. Few hobbyists, I believe, would risk exposure by identiying with this kind of cause. Also, (hope I am not being naive) the risk of an independent being busted is already probably quite small, simply because LR obtains a far greater payoff for the expenditure of limited resources by hitting MPs and such; Bigger numbers on the score card get bigger Dept budgets and enhances careers much more effectively than a single bust. Admittedly a lot of supposition here, but news reports seem to demonstrate this view. I could go on, but 'nuff said.

it may not be the most realistic one. First, what you propose would only effect a very small segment of the entire general population, so building a large amount of grass roots support(huge numbers of people with the same passion and commitment as you) would be difficult at best. Second, to form a truly effective political action committee you fail to appreciate the tremendous amounts of money required to push a particular group's agenda. To attain this necessary type of funding requires numerous corporate contributions, of which most large company's wouldn't want to be associated with this issue(even though a few of the top executives of those same companies are probably engaging in this activity). You also need to look at some broader issues, such as the basic culture of our society. Unlike the Netherlands(Amsterdam in particular) which has over a thousand years of demonstated examples of tolerance, the United States does not have such an enviable past. Even though our nation was formed as a by product of another country's intolerance, there are far too many instances of prejudice in our short history that would make it difficult to argue that we are a truly tolerant and accepting society.

There is no need to ennumerate the many other reasons why this type of group would be ultimately ineffectual. But, please don't let this be a pin in your little bubble of hope. You should continue your activism and maintain a high level of political efficacy. Who knows you may be on to something. You may also want to share your ideas with C.O.Y.O.T.E.(Call Off Your Old Tired Ethics); a group interested in sex worker reform. This is probably as close to a PAC as you will ever get. The L.A. chapter is headed by Norma Jean Almodovar(the traffic control officer-turned escort-turned author). I've supplied the link(although the website is currently down), for your convenience. Good luck in your pursuits.

I do not believe that legalizing prostitution has a great chance.  However, if it were to fly, it would need support from an organized and dedicated group. We are not that group. So who is?

Tobacco kills half a million every year yet tobacco is still legal because it is supported not only by its users but by the organized producers and distributors. Prostitution, by anyone's accurate and careful judgement presents only a very small health risk. Yet it is illegal.  Prostitution would have a chance at legalization if organized agencies, brothels and massage parlours pushed it.  

Lets look at this on a small scale.  The city of Oxnard California has a population of about 100,000 but has about 15 operating massage parlours, alarge number for a small city. Greensboro, NC has a similar ratio.  This happens because it is allowed to happen.  If prostitution were legal, the ratio of houses to population would be similar.

Suppose all the massage houses in Oxnard lobbied for a citywide referendum to legalize what they actually sell (not massages).  Lets say that the referendum was held and a campaign battle between the parlours and the Religious Fundamentalist Jerkoff Societies (RFJS) ensued.  Arguments for both sides would be:

For:  Increase tax base - bring millions into the city coffers.  Provide and demand health testing for all sex workers - healthier city.  Bring out into the open these activities which are happening anyway.

Against.  Protect the family. Preserve morality, etc, etc.

I think with a well financed campaign, the fors  would have a chance.   Most people in Oxnard could care less about what is already going on.  Why not have the city make some money from it?  Better schools.  Safer streets.  Of course all of us who live there would cast our ballots for the legalized parlours.