Amendment “T” on ballot addresses controversial language in Colorado Constitution

With less than a week before Election Day, we are digging deeper into Southern Colorado ballot issues.

KRDO NewsChannel 13 is looking into Amendment T, which has some controversial language.

The amendment proposes to remove a reference to “slavery” in the Colorado Constitution.

The language dates back to the original Constitution, which was written in 1876. It says, “There shall never be in this state either slavery or involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime.”

“Removing the language will be largely symbolic,” said Josh Dunn, UCCS Political Science professor.

“The one concern people have is that would this change some of the punishments that are needed.”

Dunn adds that if it does pass, it will not affect prison systems and work duties for inmates.

UPDATE: With nearly all the ballots counted, and roughly 2.3 million votes cast, the results could require a recount.

There was no organized opposition to Amendment “T” but the numbers are coming in very close.