Paying for sex in France is about to get a lot more expensive.
The country’s National Assembly has outlawed the hiring of prostitutes. The offense carries a fine of 1,500 euros ($1,700). Repeat offenders could be fined up to 3,750 euros ($4,260).
Clients will also have to enroll in workshops to learn about the plight of sex workers.
The measure has been quite controversial in France, having bounced back and forth between the legislature’s two chambers since 2013. It passed Wednesday by a vote of 64-12.
Meanwhile, the penalties for prostitutes will be eased. Sex workers will no longer be fined or jailed for public soliciting, according to the National Assembly’s website.
And foreign sex workers actively trying to get out of prostitution can be given a six-month residential permit and state funding to prevent prostitution.