Madison, Wis. – The Wisconsin Legislative Black Caucus introduced a constitutional amendment Tuesday to eliminate a slavery exception in the state constitution.
The proposal, identified as 2025 LRB-6044, would remove language allowing slavery or involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime where a person has been duly convicted. Wisconsin’s constitution currently prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude but includes that exception.
In a joint statement, caucus members said the amendment is intended to ensure “all forms of slavery and involuntary servitude are prohibited in Wisconsin without exception.”
The lawmakers referenced the 13th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified more than 160 years ago, which abolished slavery nationwide but also contains an exception permitting involuntary servitude as punishment for a crime.
“As we celebrate Black History Month, it is important to celebrate the historic legacy of the 13th Amendment while also acknowledging the work we still must do to build a more racially-just society,” the caucus said in its statement.
The group said removing the exception from Wisconsin’s constitution is necessary to uphold the dignity of residents and protect incarcerated individuals who could face mandatory work requirements. The statement also said the existing language disproportionately affects Black Americans.
“In the year 2026 — it is finally time for Wisconsin to ban slavery once and for all,” the caucus said.
Constitutional amendments in Wisconsin must pass the Legislature in two consecutive sessions and then be approved by voters in a statewide referendum.
If advanced by lawmakers, the proposal would ultimately appear on a statewide ballot for voter consideration.
