HJR 1002 by Representative A. Collins proposes an amendment to the Arkansas Constitution to repeal the exception that allows slavery and involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime. The amendment aims to fully abolish slavery in the state by removing this exception from Article 2, Section 27 of the Arkansas Constitution.

Key Provisions:

• The amendment would delete the phrase "except as a punishment for crime" from Article 2, Section 27, thereby eliminating the legal basis for slavery and involuntary servitude in Arkansas.
• The intent of the amendment is to recognize the fundamental values of the citizens of Arkansas and abolish all forms of slavery within the state.
• The amendment suggests that prisoners who work should be compensated with money or "good time" to aid their re-entry into society.
• The amendment would take effect on January 1, 2027, if approved by voters in the next general election.

Ballot Title and Popular Name:

• The ballot title would be the same as the title of the Joint Resolution.
• The popular name would be "A Constitutional Amendment to Repeal the Exception to the Prohibition of Slavery and Involuntary Servitude."

Additional Notes:

• The resolution highlights the moral and economic benefits that would result from ending the practice of slavery and involuntary servitude in Arkansas.
• The resolution emphasizes that the Arkansas Constitution is the moral and legal foundation of the state and should reflect the values of its citizens.