opinion

FSC Board Chair Jeffrey Douglas Asks Voters to Say NO to Proposition 35

 
Taken at a Labor Day Parade in New York City, circa 1909
 
   

Like so many ballot measures, Proposition 35 is a well-intentioned debacle. Purportedly targeting people who engage in sexual slavery, especially of minors, the definitions are so broad that the law would implicate people who are not remotely engaged in forced sexual conduct, especially adult producers.

Just one example tells almost everything you need to know. “Coercion” is defined as including “abuse or threatened abuse of the legal process.” Therefore you could be charged with sex trafficking if you were to say to an independent contractor, “If you do not perform the scene as agreed to in writing, I’ll sue you for every penny you are worth.”  This is potentially “threatened abuse of the legal process,” since you could not actually get more than the actual damages incurred.

Another chilling component is the provision which states “Mistake of fact as to age of a victim of human trafficking is not a defense to criminal prosecution under this section.” The law is not limited to inherently illegal sexual conduct, but includes consensual (and otherwise legal) commercial sexual activity. Therefore a minor providing a producer with valid (but fraudulently obtained) driver’s license or passport misrepresenting his or her age could result in the producer being criminally liable in ways the producer is not liable under current Federal and state law.

There are many other horrible parts, and none of it is necessary because of existing laws. That is why the State’s major newspapers are opposing against Prop. 35. I am not saying that if this passes, it will be a disaster for the adult industry.  Most likely, it will not be used against us. However, an ill-intentioned prosecutor, such as we have had in the past (remember L.A. County D.A. Bob Philibosian?), could use this law to destroy lives.

Please vote No on Proposition 35, and tell your friends. It is highly likely to pass.

- Jeffrey J. Douglas, A Professional Corporation

1717 Fourth Street, Third Floor

Santa Monica, CA  90401-3319

jjdxxx1@gmail.com

Copyright © 2024 Adnet Media. All Rights Reserved. XBIZ is a trademark of Adnet Media.
Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission is prohibited.

More Articles

opinion

The Perils of Relying on ChatGPT for Legal Advice

It surprised me how many people admitted that they had used ChatGPT or similar services either to draft legal documents or to provide legal advice. “Surprised” is probably an understatement of my reaction to learning about this, as “horrified” more accurately describes my emotional response.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
opinion

Free Agent Auteur: Casey Calvert Expands Her Directing Horizon

Now, having brought that highly-awarded polyamory trilogy to a close, Calvert is concluding the exclusive Lust Cinema directing chapter of her career and charting a new course out into open creative waters as a free agent.

Alejandro Freixes ·
opinion

The Continuous Journey of Legal Compliance in Adult

The adult entertainment industry is teeming with opportunity but is also fraught with challenges, from anticipating consumer behavior to keeping up with technological innovation. The most labyrinthine of all challenges, however, is the world of legal compliance.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
profile

Collaboration Done Differently: Adult Time Discusses Ambassador Program

Since the launch of Adult Time in 2019, award-winning director and chief creative officer Bree Mills has actively explored collaborative opportunities with members of the performer community, seeking out talent whose values align with the company’s and who appreciate the type of content Mills creates for the multibrand platform.

Alejandro Freixes ·
profile

WIA Profile: Siouxsie Q.

Siouxsie Q has long been a committed artist and organizer. This dual path has garnered her significant recognition for both her creative works and her advocacy. Yet one thing that stands clear in Q’s story is that her motivation transcends mere acclaim.

Women In Adult ·
trends

The Art of Performance: Top Stars Share Current Strategies for Success

While many studio performers are also creators, harnessing the booming indie content and streaming market, only a select few creators also do studio shoots.

Alejandro Freixes ·
opinion

Raising Awareness and Taking Action Against Financial Discrimination

While foes of the adult entertainment industry often focus on “moral” concerns and perpetuate social stigmas, another form of attack can be equally or even more damaging: financial discrimination.

Corey D. Silverstein ·
opinion

Beyond DMCA Takedowns: Exploring Alternative Avenues

Most content creators recognize that inevitably, their content will be leaked on pirate sites, forums and file lockers. The most responsible and successful creators have therefore implemented a strategy to protect their valuable intellectual property.

Lawrence Walters ·
profile

Sinful XXX Brings Dreamy Erotica to Life With Business Finesse

As the creative brains behind Sinful XXX, director and producer Roma Amor is primarily responsible for bringing the brand’s signature style of erotica to life. It is a role for which he is well prepared, having worked as a freelance art photographer and video maker since 1996.

Alejandro Freixes ·
opinion

Anna Claire Clouds Reflects on Triumphs, Career Ambitions

Born and raised in a small town near Nashville, Tennessee, Southern belle Anna Claire Clouds grew up surrounded by nature. She spent most of her time enjoying the rippling waters of the lake, exploring the greenery of the woods and living that country life.

Alejandro Freixes ·
Show More