This week, lawmakers in Washington state signed legislation known as the “Strippers’ Bill of Rights,” which advocates say provides comprehensive statewide protections for adult dancers. Governor Jay Inslee signed the bill, which aims to create safer working conditions for those in the adult entertainment industry and eventually allow clubs to sell alcohol. The law mandates training for employees to prevent sexual harassment, identify human trafficking, de-escalate conflict, and provide first aid. It also requires security workers on site, keypad codes to enter dressing rooms, and panic buttons in private rooms.
The bill sponsor, Senator Rebecca Saldaña of Seattle, emphasized that strippers are workers who deserve the same rights and protections as any other labor force. Most dancers in Washington state are independent contractors who are paid by customers and must pay fees to clubs for every shift. The new law limits the fees owners can charge, caps them at $150 or 30% of the amount dancers make during their shift, and prohibits late fees and other charges related to unpaid balances. The advocacy organization Strippers Are Workers, which has been active in the state since 2018, campaigned for these regulations and for the ability for clubs to sell alcohol.
The National Conference of State Legislatures noted that only one other state, Illinois, has added worker protections for adult entertainers. In 2019, Illinois started requiring adult entertainment establishments, along with other businesses, to have written sexual harassment policies. In Florida, lawmakers are considering a measure that would prevent individuals under age 21 from working at adult establishments, pending Governor Ron DeSantis’ signature. Workers in other U.S. cities, such as Portland, Oregon, and North Hollywood, California, have also sought protections, with dancers in these locations voting to unionize.
The Nevada Supreme Court ruled in 2014 that adult dancers at a Las Vegas club are employees, not independent contractors, and are entitled to minimum wage and other protections. Senator Saldaña emphasized the importance of confronting the stigma surrounding adult entertainment and recognizing the humanity of those involved in the industry. The new legislation in Washington state is seen as a significant step towards providing worker protections for adult dancers, and advocates hope that other states will follow suit in providing comprehensive safeguards and rights for workers in the adult entertainment industry. The focus is on ensuring safety, preventing exploitation, and promoting a fair and equitable working environment for those in this sector.
