(AP) -- The vote by the Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board on Thursday changes a 1990s-era anti-crime regulation.
The rule had excluded prostitutes from the list of people who could be reimbursed for medical costs and related expenses if they were harmed during violent crimes, because their activities are illegal.
Chairwoman Marybel Batjer called the rule "repugnant" and said "rape is rape, period."
The three-member board voted unanimously to end California's status as the only state with such a prohibition.
The board heard testimony from several sex workers who said they have been assaulted on the job.
It will take several months to formally repeal the regulation.