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Bill

KE

Bill

HJR I

Crimes: other; exception to prohibition on slavery; eliminate. Amends sec. 9, art. I of the state constitution.

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Kimberly Edwards and 3 co-sponsors

Michigan constitutional amendment eliminating slavery exception as criminal punishment, aligning state constitution with federal prohibition on forced labor.

joint resolution electronically reproduced 04/15/2025
#constitutionalamendments:state #crimes:other
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Bill Summary · HJR I

Legislative bill overview

HJR 1 proposes to amend Michigan's state constitution by removing language that currently permits slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for crime. The amendment would eliminate the constitutional exception that allows forced labor as a criminal penalty, bringing the state constitution into alignment with modern interpretations of the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

Why is this important

Michigan's constitution currently contains archaic language permitting slavery "except as a punishment for crime," a provision that exists in many state constitutions as remnants of 19th-century law. While the U.S. Supreme Court has effectively nullified such provisions through federal law, removing it from Michigan's constitution serves as a symbolic and substantive step toward eliminating language that authorizes slavery under any circumstance. This clarification prevents any future legal ambiguity about whether forced labor can be imposed on incarcerated individuals.

Potential points of contention

  • Prison labor interpretation: Some argue current prison labor systems (inmate work programs) operate within constitutional bounds; opponents may view this as challenging the legality of existing correctional practices, though the bill targets punishment-based slavery specifically
  • Constitutional amendment process: Passing a joint resolution requires legislative approval and often voter referendum, making this a time-intensive process that some may view as unnecessary given federal law already prohibits the practice
  • Scope clarity: Questions may arise about whether removal affects compensation rates for prisoner work programs or rehabilitation through labor initiatives

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

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