Nevada Prostitutes Push to Become Unionized

Prostitutes at one of Nevada’s oldest brothels are seeking to become the first in the United States to unionize, filing a petition with the National Labor Relations Board under the name United Brothel Workers, represented by the Communications Workers of America.

Prostitution is legal at licensed brothels in 10 rural Nevada counties. Sheri’s Ranch, about an hour outside Las Vegas, employs 74 people, many of whom submitted the union petition last week.

The move was sparked by a new independent contractor agreement issued in December, giving the brothel broad rights over the women’s likenesses, even after they leave the business. The contract grants the brothel an “irrevocable, worldwide, perpetual, royalty-free, non-exclusive license” to distribute the workers’ material, including online content.

Jupiter Jetson, a Sheri’s Ranch employee, said the contract makes it harder for courtesans to leave the industry and pursue other careers. Another worker, Molly Wylder, echoed that concern.

When the women raised their concerns, management told them to sign the contract or leave. Some workers signed under duress, but Jetson and two others received dismissals after learning of the unionization effort.

The Communications Workers of America is advocating for the brothel to reinstate the women.

The broader unionization effort could hinge on whether the prostitutes are considered independent contractors or employees. While legally classified as contractors, the women state schedules, minimum hourly rates, and workplace rules make them functionally employees. Sheri’s Ranch takes a 50% cut of their earnings, and the women are required to charge a minimum of $1,000 per hour.

Union organizers say the workers also want protections for their intellectual property, the ability to negotiate dress codes, fairer wages, and access to benefits such as health insurance. The petition is now under review, and Sheri’s Ranch could choose to recognize the union and begin contract negotiations immediately; however, the process may take several weeks.