Alabama's prison system faces criticism for using inmate labor, generating over $250M since 2000.

Alabama's prison system has been criticized for using inmate labor to generate over $250 million since 2000. More than 10,000 inmates have worked for private companies like McDonald's and Walmart, totaling 17 million work hours outside prison since 2018. Inmates earn at least $7.25 an hour, but the state takes 40% of their wages and imposes fees. Refusing work can result in punishment, including being denied family visits or sent to higher-security prisons. Critics argue the system exploits prisoners, treating them as cheap labor, and is akin to modern-day slavery.

3 months ago
61 Articles

Further Reading