We have been once again treated to Donna M. Hughes’s slender relationship with truth (“Senators’ prostitution bill is a sham,” Commentary, Sept. 4).

There are reasonable arguments on both sides of this discussion. Alas, Professor Hughes has clearly left behind any concept of the academic pursuit of knowledge and is in the employ of propaganda and advocacy.

I am quoting here from a letter that Ms. Hughes shared from Prof. Laura Lederer, certainly knowledgeable in this area, who clearly concluded that a bill similar to the House version was preferable. But, in the midst of her letter, Lederer states as follows:

“It is easy to understand why Rhode Island legislators might find decriminalized prostitution attractive. The criminal justice system has not been effective in assisting young women and children who are caught up in prostitution. Whether they were lured in, or began voluntarily, or were forced or coerced, almost all women and children in prostitution become trapped in systemic exploitation and violence. To date, the criminal-justice system has been a revolving door of arrest, prosecution, conviction, jail time and then back on the street again. Those who support decriminalization argue that it is time to take the criminal-justice focus off the women and children and place it squarely on the exploiters: the traffickers, the pimps, and the end users (johns).”

This analysis correctly states the result in roughly 49 other states. I do not know of any reason to assume that Rhode Island will, upon passing of a version of the House bill, have any other result. As with every other prohibition in this country’s history, the activity will be driven underground, will become more dangerous for the participants, with more incarcerations and (I am not being dramatic) more deaths.

I am aware from different conversations that many legislators would support a bill similar to the current House version. I respect that. I think it is wrong, but I respect the consideration and sincerity that legislators have brought to their decision.

CHARLES LEVESQUE

Portsmouth

The writer is a Democratic state senator.