High fuel prices hurting the brothel business

Before complaining about high gas prices, remember that you aren’t the only one suffering. High gas prices are also hurting the world's oldest profession. Nevada brothels catering to long-haul truckers are offering gas cards and other promotions after seeing business decline as much as 25 percent from a year ago. What a unique concept, gas cards for sex. Nevada is the nation's only state that allows brothels, which is legal in 10 of 17 Nevada counties. 

Geoffrey Arnold, president of the Nevada Brothel Owners' Association, said truckers account for up to 75 percent of business along Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 95. He said business is down about 19 percent at Donna's Ranch in Wells and Donna's Battle Mountain Ranch, both along I-80.

"We're being affected by the economy like everybody else," Arnold said. "Times are tougher and truckers have less money to spend. They're not high-rollers anymore." Diesel fuel costs roughly $4.70 a gallon, up 67.5 percent from a year ago, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Of Nevada's 28 legal brothels, 16 are located in rural areas being hurt by truckers' higher diesel costs, Arnold said. Brothels closer to Reno and Las Vegas, which rely more on tourists and conventioneers, say business is up this year. 

In response to a 5 percent drop in business, the Shady Lady Ranch along U.S. 95 about 150 miles north of Las Vegas offered $50 gas cards to clients who spend $300 and $100 gas cards to those who spend $500. The brothel also offers special monthly discounts, including an offer of 45 minutes of services for $175 instead of $200. "Instead of spending $500 out here, they might only spend $300. I see it every time they raise gas prices," said owner Bobbi Davis. 

“Hardest hit are independent truckers, who must pay for their own fuel,” said George Flint, a lobbyist for the brothel owners' association. "So there goes your disposable income to have a little fun," Flint told the Reno Gazette-Journal.

Arnold doesn’t believe fuel costs will totally send anyone packing. "The customers won't be spending as much, but the brothels will still be there," says Arnold. “After food, the most important activity, at least for men, is sex. Sex is not going away."

The sex business is still fueling the economy and will continue doing so. Surprisingly, other states are so closed mind to the industry; they are unwilling to even consider this cash cow as a source of taxable revenue. The revenue could provide relief to human service agencies and local school systems.