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HB 5021

Crimes: prostitution; references to prostitute and prostitution; modify in the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. Amends sec. 7c of 1996 IL (MCL 432.207c). TIE BAR WITH: HB 5016'25

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kelly Breen and 17 co-sponsors

HB 5021 replaces outdated sex work terminology in Michigan's gaming law with updated language, pending companion bill passage.

bill electronically reproduced 09/18/2025
#crimes:prostitution #gaming:other
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 5021

Legislative bill overview

HB 5021 removes references to "prostitute" and "prostitution" from the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, replacing them with updated terminology. The bill is tied to companion legislation (HB 5016) and appears part of a broader effort to modernize language in Michigan gaming regulations.

Why is this important

Gaming regulations with outdated or stigmatizing language can perpetuate harm and may not align with current legal frameworks addressing sex trafficking versus consensual sex work. Updating statutory language can clarify legal distinctions and reduce stigma in official state documents that carry legal weight.

Potential points of contention

  • Undefined replacement terminology: The bill description doesn't specify what language replaces "prostitute/prostitution," making it unclear whether the new terms adequately address the intended legal distinctions or create ambiguity in enforcement.
  • Scope and consistency questions: Without seeing the full text, it's unclear whether this is a standalone cleanup or part of larger sex work/trafficking law reforms, and whether related statutes are being updated simultaneously.
  • Companion bill dependency: The tie-bar with HB 5016 means this bill's effect depends on that measure passing, limiting independent assessment of its actual impact.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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