Abercrombie signs prostitution bill into law

HONOLULU—House Bill 44, pertaining to prostitution and solicitation was signed into law on June 1 by Gov. Neil Abercrombie.

House Bill 44 makes it a misdemeanor to offer or agree to pay a fee to another person for the purpose of sexual conduct within 750 feet of a school or public park.

The bill, which was introduced by Rep. Karl Rhoads (District 28—Downtown, Chinatown) is now Act 74 and takes effect on July 1, 2011.

“Children and their parents, going to and from school or the park, should not be exposed to a gauntlet of prostitutes, pimps and johns,” Rhoads said.  “House Bill 44 raises the penalty for johns, and subsequently helps to clear out prostitution in areas where children must travel. The Governor’s signing of this bill is a strong message that the public has a right to use public thoroughfares without being intimidated by illegal activity.”