Democratic lawmakers seek removal of slavery clause in 13th Amendment
WASHINGTON – A group of Democratic lawmakers is seeking changes to the 13th Amendment to abolish slavery and involuntary servitude.
Existing provisions allow slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for crimes.
A resolution known as the “Abolition Amendment” was introduced Wednesday, just before Juneteenth, the national vacation commemorating the end of slavery. Three lawmakers Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon, Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey and Rep. Nikema Williams of Georgia have sponsored the initiative.
The resolution seeks to clarify the provision that neither slavery nor involuntary servitude can be imposed as punishment for a crime.
Supporters clarify that the resolution is not intended to interfere with the ability of incarcerated individuals to agree to work.
Ratification of the constitutional amendment requires a two-thirds majority in both houses of Congress and approval by at least 38 state legislatures.
Previous attempts to abolish the slavery exemption have been unsuccessful.
Proponents of the resolution the “loophole” in the 13th Amendment have led to excessive incarceration of black Americans in notorious prison plantations such as Parchman in Mississippi and Angola in Louisiana.
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