Bill > HJR1002

This joint resolution proposes an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution to remove the exception that currently allows slavery and involuntary servitude as a punishment for crime. The resolution acknowledges that the existing constitutional language permits forced labor for prisoners, and seeks to fully abolish this practice. The amendment aims to align the state constitution with fundamental moral values by eliminating any legal pathway to slavery or involuntary servitude. If approved by voters at the next general election, the amendment would modify Article 2, Section 27 to state that "There shall be no slavery in this State, nor involuntary servitude" without the previous exception for criminal punishment. The resolution suggests that prisoners should be compensated for their labor through money or "good time" credits to aid their reintegration into society. The proposed amendment would become effective on January 1, 2027, and would be presented to voters with the ballot title "A Constitutional Amendment to Repeal the Exception to the Prohibition of Slavery and Involuntary Servitude." If a majority of voters approve the amendment, it will become part of the Arkansas Constitution.

Government Affairs

https://www.arkleg.state.ar.us/Bills/Detail?id=hjr1002&ddBienniumSession=2025%2F2025R