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Bill Summary · HB 646

Legislative bill overview

HB 646 proposes a constitutional amendment to remove slavery and involuntary servitude as lawful punishment for crime in North Carolina. Currently, the North Carolina Constitution contains a clause permitting slavery as criminal punishment, language that exists in several state constitutions as a remnant of pre-Civil War law. This amendment would delete that provision entirely.

Why is this important

While the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution abolished slavery nationwide in 1865, it explicitly carved out an exception allowing involuntary servitude "as a punishment for crime." This loophole has been cited in debates about mass incarceration and prison labor practices. Removing this language from state constitutions is largely symbolic but represents a definitive repudiation of slavery language from governing documents and clarifies state values.

Potential points of contention

  • Symbolic vs. practical impact: Critics may argue the amendment is purely symbolic since federal law already prohibits slavery, while supporters view the state constitutional language as offensive and outdated that deserves removal
  • Prison labor implications: Some may interpret the change as commentary on current prison labor practices, potentially fueling debate over whether incarcerated workers should receive compensation or have work requirements modified
  • Amendment process timing: The bill requires legislative approval and voter ratification, raising questions about whether other criminal justice reforms should take priority

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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