Like millions of others, I've come to realize the profound impact of the pornography industry. Rendering unrealistic expectations of sex, it can lead to severe mental health issues for both consumers and those employed in the industry. Along with the exploitation of its workers, the industry promotes an unhealthy perspective on relationships and human interaction.

The high profitability of the porn industry is undeniable, with an estimated $97 billion in global revenue and $12 billion earned in the U.S. alone (The New York Times, 2020). This vast, untapped sum could be redirected toward strengthening our economy and funding critical programs that benefit society as a whole.

 
Why We Need Change:
We propose implementing a 10-15% tax on the porn industry's revenues to create an income stream that will serve multiple purposes:

Funding Mental Health Services:
The psychological harm caused by pornography is well-documented. According to Psychology Today, "Pornography addiction is becoming a real and recognized mental health disorder," affecting individuals’ relationships, self-esteem, and mental well-being. A portion of the tax revenue could fund mental health services to support those dealing with porn addiction and its effects on relationships and self-image.
Combating Exploitation:
The adult entertainment industry is notorious for exploitation and coercion of workers. According to a report by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation, "Sexual exploitation within the porn industry is widespread, with many performers subjected to unsafe working conditions and forced into abusive situations." A tax could be used to fund programs aimed at reducing these practices and improving labor conditions for workers in the industry.
Educational Initiatives for Youth:
A study published in JAMA Psychiatry in 2020 found that "exposure to pornography at a young age is linked to unrealistic expectations about sex and relationships." The revenue from the proposed tax could be invested in comprehensive sex education programs that teach young people about healthy relationships, consent, and the dangers of pornography in shaping their perceptions of sex.
Rebuilding America’s Economy:
The $12 billion generated by the U.S. porn industry is untapped revenue that could be used to fund much-needed programs in education, public infrastructure, and workforce development. As stated in a report by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA), "Federal and state investments in education and infrastructure are crucial for long-term economic stability and growth." By redirecting a portion of the industry's profits through taxation, we can reinvest those funds into initiatives that benefit the entire country.
 
The Case for This Tax:
The porn industry’s financial power, combined with its negative societal impact, makes it a logical source of revenue for societal improvement. While other “sin” industries such as tobacco and alcohol are taxed heavily due to their harmful effects, the porn industry remains largely untaxed. As noted in an article by Forbes, "The adult entertainment industry remains a $97 billion market with little to no government oversight or taxation." Why should this industry be exempt?

A 10-15% tax on the porn industry would provide billions in untapped revenue that could fuel improvements in mental health, education, and labor rights, helping to rebuild our economy while addressing the harmful effects of pornography. This tax would also serve as a step toward holding the industry accountable for its social impact.

 
Our Goal:

To reduce the harmful effects of the porn industry on individuals and society.
To redirect the industry’s massive profits to improve the U.S. economy and provide support for those affected by its negative impact.
This is a feasible, effective measure that could lead to substantial improvements in multiple sectors, including mental health, education, and labor rights, while also sparking a conversation about how we, as a society, handle adult content.

We ask lawmakers to consider this proposal seriously and work towards implementing a 10-15% tax on the porn industry, redirecting its fortunes toward America’s future.

Sign the petition if you believe in a healthier, more realistic society.