Proposition 6: Eliminates Constitutional Provision Allowing Involuntary Servitude for Incarcerated Persons. Legislative Constitutional Amendment.
Summary
Proposition 6 is a legislatively referred constitutional amendment. It would remove language from the state constitution that allows jails and prisons to impose involuntary servitude as a criminal punishment. If the proposition passes, prisoners can refuse a work assignment without punishment. It would allow inmates to voluntarily accept work assignments in exchange for credit to reduce their sentences.
Fiscal Impact
State and local criminal justice costs could increase or decrease depending upon how rules change around work for people in state prison and county jails. It estimated that the impact would be no more than tens of millions of dollars annually.
What your vote means
A YES vote on this measure means: Involuntary servitude would not be allowed as punishment for crime. State prisons would not be allowed to discipline people in prison who refuse to work.
A NO vote on this measure means: Involuntary servitude would continue to be allowed as punishment for crime.
Official Voter Information
California Secretary of State, Text of Proposed Laws, Prop. 6 begins on page 97
California Secretary of State and State Attorney General, Voter Information Guide, Summary Analysis of Prop. 6
California Secretary of State, Quick Reference Guide Prop. 6
California Secretary of State, Official Voter Information Guide Prop. 6
California Legislative Analyst's Office, Proposition 6
California Secretary of State, Cal-Access, Cal-Access Campaign Finance Activity Prop. 6
California Secretary of State, Cal-Access: Campaign contributions for Proposition 6
California Fair Political Practices Commission, November 2024 General Election Top Contributors Lists
Non-partisan Voter Information
CalMatters Prop 6 Explained (video)
CalMatters Explicación de la Proposición 6 en las elecciones de California de 2024
California Budget and Policy Center (n/a 9/9/24)
KQED(n/a 9/9/24)
LAist (n/a 9/9/24)
Public Opinion Polls
Berkeley IGS Poll -
PPIC Statewide Survey -
Pro/Con Statements
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
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Proponents of Proposition 6 believe the measure eliminates a form of slavery and involuntary servitude within California for all persons. They claim that forced labor provides no authentic rehabilitative purpose. They claim that incarcerated people will have their dignity and agency restored by allowing voluntary work assignments. They believe this is a human rights issue. . |
No argument against Proposition 6 was submitted. |
| Supporters | Opponents |
|---|---|
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The IGS Library has not located a campaign in support of the ballot measure. |
The IGS Library has not located a campaign in opposition to the ballot measure. |