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HR 1530

Ending Slavery in Georgia Amendment; propose - CA

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Jasmine Clark and 5 co-sponsors

Georgia constitutional amendment eliminating the slavery/involuntary servitude exception for criminal punishment, removing a 13th Amendment loophole in state law.

House Second Readers
#crimesandoffenses(criminalcode)
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Bill Summary · HR 1530

Legislative bill overview

HR 1530 proposes a constitutional amendment to Georgia's state constitution that would eliminate the exception allowing slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for crime. Currently, Georgia's constitution (like the U.S. Constitution's 13th Amendment) permits forced labor as a criminal penalty. This amendment would remove that carve-out entirely.

Why is this important

This change addresses a constitutional loophole that has historically enabled states to impose forced labor on incarcerated individuals. Removing this exception aligns Georgia's constitution with the intent of criminal justice reform advocates who argue that slavery—even as punishment—conflicts with modern human rights standards. The practical impact depends on whether Georgia has active statutes utilizing this exception and how courts would interpret the change.

Potential points of contention

  • Incarceration labor programs: Clarification needed on whether this affects existing prison work programs, chain gangs, or labor-for-wages systems currently operating in Georgia's correctional system
  • Implementation ambiguity: The amendment's language and scope regarding what constitutes "involuntary servitude" versus permissible incarceration conditions requires interpretation
  • Timing and political context: Georgia recently passed related criminal justice reforms; questions arise about whether this is symbolic legislation or addresses specific current practices

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

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