A Resolution urging the Congress of the United States to pass a constitutional amendment that provides that neither slavery nor involuntary servitude may be imposed as a punishment for a crime.
Summary
House Resolution 58 is a nonbinding resolution urging the U.S. Congress to adopt a constitutional amendment removing the Thirteenth Amendment’s exception that allows slavery or involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime. The resolution argues that the exception has been used historically to sustain forced labor and racial oppression after the Civil War, citing Black Codes, convict leasing, and modern prison labor as evidence that the clause continues to enable coerced labor in the criminal justice system.
The resolution also notes that several states have already removed similar language from their own constitutions through ballot measures, and it points to a proposed federal amendment introduced in Congress in 2023. If adopted, the measure would not change Pennsylvania law directly; instead, it would formally express the House’s position and transmit that position to federal officials and Pennsylvania’s congressional delegation. Its practical effect is advocacy rather than immediate legal change.
Impact
HR58 does not amend Pennsylvania statutes or the state constitution. Its legal effect is limited to a formal legislative statement urging Congress to pursue a federal constitutional amendment, and it directs that copies be sent to the President, congressional leaders, and Pennsylvania’s members of Congress. The resolution is aimed at federal constitutional change that would eliminate the crime-punishment exception to slavery and involuntary servitude, which could affect prison labor practices and related criminal justice policies nationwide if ultimately adopted.
Sentiment
The available vote history suggests the resolution advanced out of the House Judiciary Committee by a 15-11 vote, indicating support but also meaningful opposition. The bill text itself reflects strong moral and historical condemnation of the Thirteenth Amendment’s punishment exception, framing the issue as a racial justice and human rights concern. Overall, the sentiment appears favorable among supporters of criminal justice reform and abolition of forced prison labor, while opponents likely view the measure as unnecessary, symbolic, or politically contentious.
Contention
The main point of contention is the Thirteenth Amendment’s exception clause itself: supporters argue it is a racist loophole that has enabled forced labor, racial disparities, and prison labor abuses, while critics may dispute the characterization or question the need for a constitutional amendment. Another likely area of disagreement is the scope of the issue, including references to federal inmate work requirements and the broader implications for prison labor, corrections policy, and criminal sentencing. The committee vote margin shows the resolution was not unanimous, reflecting division over both the symbolic and policy significance of the proposal.
Urges Congress to propose amendment to United States Constitution to prohibit use of slavery or indentured servitude for individuals convicted of crime.