Bill > SR79

This Resolution urges Congress to propose an amendment to the United States Constitution to completely abolish slavery and indentured servitude, which is also known as involuntary servitude, for all individuals, including those convicted of crimes. While the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution, ratified in 1865, is generally understood to have ended slavery, it contains an exception that allows for slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime. This Resolution highlights concerns about the current prison labor system in the United States, noting the large incarcerated population, the involvement of private correctional facilities that profit from low-cost inmate labor, and the low wages paid to incarcerated workers, with some states not paying them at all. The Resolution argues that much of the work performed by prisoners does not equip them with skills for future employment, and therefore, it is appropriate to amend the Constitution to remove the exception that permits forced labor as a punishment for crime.