PAHRUMP, Nevada — Sex workers at Sheri’s Ranch, one of Nevada’s oldest legal brothels, have filed to unionize, potentially becoming the first group of brothel workers in the United States to form a labor union.
Nevada is the only state where prostitution is legal in licensed brothels, though only in certain rural counties. Workers at Sheri’s Ranch submitted a petition to the National Labor Relations Board under the name United Brothel Workers, seeking representation by the Communications Workers of America.
The organizing effort follows a new independent contractor agreement issued in December. Workers say the contract grants the brothel broad rights over their likeness and intellectual property, even after they leave. “We want the same things that any other worker wants. We want a safe and respectful workplace,” said a worker who uses the stage name Jupiter Jetson.
Brothel management said it respects workers’ rights to express views on workplace structure and maintains its focus is on operating a lawful environment.
A key legal issue will be whether the courtesans are classified as independent contractors or employees. Workers argue they are treated like employees, citing set schedules and mandatory pricing. Management disputes that characterization.
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