SPRINGFIELD — Prostitutes would be able to sue their pimps for emotional anguish and other damages under a measure that the Illinois House overwhelmingly passed Tuesday.

Rep. Constance Howard (D-Chicago), the bill’s sponsor, said her intent is to empower men, women and children trapped in desperate situations.

“This is for someone who says, I cannot take this any longer. I’ve been used and abused. I’m ready to try and get some help,” Howard said.

Under the measure, which now goes to the Senate, the prostitute would have to prove in court that the pimp profited from the sex trade, recruited prostitutes or trafficked and maintained them. The pimp could be held accountable for his victim’s financial losses, personal injuries, diseases and mental and emotional anguish.

The bill would not impose a cap on how much the court could award the plaintiff for pain and suffering.

While most House lawmakers supported the idea, Rep. Patricia Bailey (D-Chicago) expressed concerns about Howard’s measure. During floor debate, Bailey made the point that some pimps take care of the sex workers who work for them.

“Do you know that when a prostitute gets arrested, it is that pimp who gets them out of jail?” Bailey said. “Also, when that prostitute gets sick, it’s the pimp that takes care of her. But the problem I’m looking at is that if the prostitute turns on that pimp, you’ve created another situation whereby you’re jeopardizing the reality, the safety and well-being of that prostitute, who by choice is doing what she’s doing.”

After casting a “present” vote, Bailey told reporters the bill has sweeping implications.

“It’s going to legalize prostitution,” she said.