(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.
Follow us for more stories like this
CapRadio provides a trusted source of news because of you. As a nonprofit organization, donations from people like you sustain the journalism that allows us to discover stories that are important to our audience. If you believe in what we do and support our mission, please donate today.
Donate Today