This stupidity is called the Swedish or Scandanavian model.

It doesn't work. It actually increases violence since only men willing to do violence will take the chances of getting hit with a felony. They will also assault any cops that try to take them down since they have so much to lose if they get caught.

If it's a felony to pay for sex and a felony to rape, rape is cheaper and has more available choices.

The only model that actually works is the New Zealand model that's worked well for 16 years or so. The sex businesses and providers are treated just like any other business. If either side fails to do as agreed, the other side can take them to court. It's open and transparent, and the rules of each interaction are agreed to by the parties involved. The state just stays out of the way unless someone gets violent or violates their contract.