New Hampshire House Bill CACR13

New Hampshire 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 12/1/23
• Refer: 12/1/23
• Report Pass: 1/24/24
• Engrossed: 2/22/24
• Refer: 2/22/24
• Report Pass: 5/7/24

Caption

Relating to slavery and involuntary servitude. Providing that slavery and involuntary servitude shall be prohibited in the state of New Hampshire.

Impact

The impact of CACR13 on state laws would be significant, as it aims to clarify and solidify the prohibition of slavery and involuntary servitude. Currently, the New Hampshire Constitution lacks an explicit ban on these practices, which could lead to legal ambiguities. If passed, this amendment would ensure that New Hampshire law unambiguously upholds the principles of freedom and human dignity, thereby enhancing the legal framework protecting individual rights within the state.

Summary

CACR13 proposes a constitutional amendment to explicitly prohibit slavery and involuntary servitude in New Hampshire. This amendment seeks to amend the New Hampshire Constitution by inserting a new article that reaffirms a commitment to human rights by explicitly barring these practices within the state. Notably, it allows for involuntary servitude only in the context of punishment for a duly convicted crime. This aligns the state's constitution with modern human rights standards, ensuring that such practices cannot exist outside of the criminal justice system.

Contention

Discussions surrounding CACR13 reflect both support and apprehension among varied stakeholders. Proponents argue that formalizing the prohibition sends a clear message of New Hampshire's commitment to justice and equality, especially in the context of historical injustices associated with slavery. However, there may be concerns focusing on the implications of the amendment regarding any interpretations related to criminal punishment. Critics may question whether this exceeds necessary legal protections or if it could induce additional legal challenges in the realm of criminal justice.