BERLIN -- Germany's Cabinet has approved legislation meant to better control prostitution and make life safer for sex workers, including obligatory use of condoms.
Legislation in 2002 that legalized prostitution gave sex workers social benefits but led to an explosion of unregulated brothels, prompting calls for tighter controls.
The bill approved Wednesday calls for stricter regulation of such establishments and those who operate them. Sex workers will have to register and receive health advice at least every two years.
The legislation, taking effect next year, foresees fines of up to 50,000 euros ($56,000) for violations.
Frank Kempe, a spokesman for the ministry for women and families, conceded that verifying condom use is difficult. But he said it's important to "set a standard" that backs up sex workers demanding their use.
