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Ending Slavery and Involuntary Servitude as Criminal Punishment

This proposal seeks to amend the Constitution to completely ban the use of slavery or involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime. This removes a historical legal loophole that allowed forced labor for incarcerated individuals, strengthening fundamental human rights within the justice system. The change does not affect voluntary prison work programs or court-ordered community service.
Key points
Removes the constitutional exception that currently allows forced labor or servitude as punishment for a crime.
Strengthens the rights of incarcerated individuals by prohibiting the imposition of involuntary work.
Does not interfere with voluntary, high-quality work programs in correctional facilities or court-ordered community service.
article Official text account_balance Process page
Expired
Citizen Poll
No votes cast
Additional Information
Print number: 118_SJRES_33
Sponsor: Sen. Merkley, Jeff [D-OR]
Process start date: 2023-06-14
Lustra uses Artificial Intelligence. Verify details in source documents.
Summarized by: gemini-2.5-flash-preview-09-2025
Source data: api.congress.gov
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OFFICIAL LEGAL TITLE

A joint resolution proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit the use of slavery and involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the official ID of this bill?

The official print number for this legislation is 118_SJRES_33.

Which chamber initiated this legislation?

This legislation was initiated in the Senate.

When did the legislative process begin?

The process officially started on 2023-06-14.

What are the main provisions?

Key points include:

  • Removes the constitutional exception that currently allows forced labor or servitude as punishment for a crime.
  • Strengthens the rights of incarcerated individuals by prohibiting the imposition of involuntary work.
  • Does not interfere with voluntary, high-quality work programs in correctional facilities or court-ordered community service.
What is the specific legal status?

The current status is Expired.

Where can I read the full text of this legislation?

The full official text is available at: View full text

Who is the primary sponsor?

The primary sponsor is Sen. Merkley, Jeff [D-OR].

What is the latest detailed status?

The latest detailed status is: Introduced in Senate

Is this summary verified?

Yes. This content was analyzed by AI and verified by the Lustra Judge System on 2025-12-26.

CATEGORIES

Courts and Law Labor