The 136th General Assembly of Ohio has introduced a joint resolution, H. J. R. No. 2025-2026, which proposes an amendment to Section 6 of Article I of the Ohio Constitution. This amendment aims to explicitly prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude in the state, even in the context of punishment for crimes. The resolution seeks to ensure that upon conviction, courts or probation and parole agencies can mandate alternatives to incarceration, such as education, counseling, treatment, or community service, rather than allowing for forced labor as a form of punishment.

If approved by a majority of voters in the upcoming general election on November 4, 2025, the proposed amendment will take effect immediately, thereby repealing the existing language in Section 6 that permits involuntary servitude as a punishment for crime. This change reflects a commitment to reforming the criminal justice system in Ohio by promoting rehabilitation and accountability rather than punitive measures that involve forced labor.