Bill 118 hjres 72, also known as the "Anti-Slavery Amendment," is a proposed amendment to the Constitution of the United States that seeks to prohibit the use of slavery and involuntary servitude as a punishment for a crime. The bill aims to address the issue of forced labor within the criminal justice system and ensure that individuals who are incarcerated are not subjected to conditions that resemble slavery.
If passed, this amendment would make it unconstitutional for any state or federal government to impose slavery or involuntary servitude as a form of punishment for criminal offenses. This would align with the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, which abolished slavery and involuntary servitude except as punishment for a crime.
Supporters of the bill argue that the use of forced labor in prisons perpetuates a cycle of exploitation and dehumanization, particularly affecting marginalized communities. They believe that this amendment is necessary to uphold the principles of equality and justice enshrined in the Constitution.
Opponents of the bill may argue that it could limit the ability of the criminal justice system to impose certain forms of punishment on individuals who have committed serious crimes. They may also raise concerns about the potential impact on prison labor programs and the cost of implementing alternative forms of punishment.
Overall, Bill 118 hjres 72 represents a significant step towards addressing the issue of forced labor within the criminal justice system and ensuring that individuals are not subjected to conditions that violate their basic human rights.