California voters have rejected Proposition 6, a measure to ban forced prison labor, which would have amended the state constitution to prohibit involuntary servitude for incarcerated individuals. Despite the defeat, advocates argue the measure was crucial in addressing remnants of slavery in legal frameworks. The proposition was part of broader reparations efforts, but faced challenges, including low campaign funding and lack of formal opposition. Supporters vow to continue efforts to reform prison labor practices.
California voters have decided against Proposition 6, a measure that sought to amend the state constitution to ban forced prison labor. The current constitution prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude, except as punishment for a crime, allowing jails and prisons to use involuntary servitude as a form of punishment.
California voters rejected Proposition 6, a measure that would have ended forced labor in prisons by amending the state constitution to eliminate involuntary servitude as a form of criminal punishment. Despite support from Democratic leaders and advocacy groups, the measure failed, partly due to unclear ballot language. This decision contrasts with other states like Nevada, which have successfully removed similar language from their constitutions. Advocates argue that the current system hampers rehabilitation and perpetuates a legacy of exploitation.
