HJR1002
An Amendment To The Arkansas Constitution To Repeal The Exception To The Prohibition Of Slavery And Involuntary Servitude.
Last Action (May 5, 2025): Died in House Committee at Sine Die adjournment.
Sponsors
AI-Generated Summary
House Joint Resolution 1002 is a proposed constitutional amendment that seeks to remove the exception to the prohibition of slavery and involuntary servitude currently found in the Arkansas Constitution. Under existing law, the Arkansas Constitution prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude unless it is used as a punishment for a crime. This resolution proposes to repeal that specific exception, thereby fully abolishing all forms of slavery and involuntary servitude in the state. The resolution outlines the legislature's intent that inmates who perform labor should be compensated through monetary payment or credits toward their sentences to aid in rehabilitation and re-entry into society. If passed by the legislature, the amendment will be presented to Arkansas voters for approval or rejection in the next general election. If adopted by voters, the amendment would take effect on January 1, 2027.
Potential Impact Analysis
Who Might Benefit?
The primary beneficiaries would be incarcerated individuals in the state of Arkansas who are currently subject to involuntary labor as a condition of their punishment. Furthermore, proponents argue that the state as a whole benefits by aligning the state constitution with modern ethical and moral standards regarding human rights and labor practices.
Who Might Suffer?
The primary entity that could be negatively impacted is the Arkansas Department of Corrections. Removing the authority to mandate involuntary labor as a punishment could lead to increased operational costs, as the state might be required to provide compensation or alternative incentives for labor programs that were previously performed under the involuntary servitude exception.
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