COLUMBUS, Ohio — A joint resolution was introduced this week into the Ohio General Assembly that aims to amend Section 6 of Article I of the Ohio Constitution, proposing a prohibition on slavery or involuntary servitude as a form of punishment for a crime. The resolution, which has garnered bipartisan support with 27 Democrats and 5 Republicans sponsoring it, seeks to promote accountability and rehabilitation within the state’s criminal justice system.
If passed, the amendment would alter the current wording of Section 6, which currently states, “There shall be no slavery in this state; nor involuntary servitude, unless for the punishment of crime.” The proposed amendment would eliminate any allowance for slavery or involuntary servitude in Ohio’s criminal justice system.
Under the resolution, upon conviction of a crime, Ohio courts or probation/parole agencies would have the authority to order alternative measures as part of sentencing. These alternatives may include education, counseling, treatment, community service, or other programs designed to promote rehabilitation and protect society. The intention is to shift the focus away from incarceration as the sole means of punishment, offering opportunities for reformation and reducing recidivism rates.
The proposed amendment has sparked discussions among lawmakers and the public regarding the treatment of individuals convicted of crimes and the balance between punishment and rehabilitation. Supporters argue that the resolution aligns with modern principles of criminal justice and acknowledges the need for comprehensive approaches to address the underlying causes of criminal behavior.