[NobleFree]

Decriminalization will enable them [pimps] to "explain" to vulnerable girls and women that what they want the girls to do is perfectly legal, strengthening the coercive potential.

One "coerces" somebody into doing X by pointing out that X is legal? On what planet?

[Unassuaged]

One might demur by saying ‘it is illegal’, now they cannot say that. —my take. As in: Come on girl, smoke this joint! No, it is illegal. But this is CA - it is legal now! cue creepy music.