Many people incarcerated in Washington state have a job inside prison. They work in kitchens and laundry facilities and do custodial work, among other things. The most they can be paid is $2.70 an hour. Now, there's a proposal in the state Legislature to pay incarcerated workers the state minimum wage, $15.74 an hour.
Democrat State Rep. Tarra Simmons of Bremerton is sponsoring the bill. She's also the first-ever formerly incarcerated person to be elected to the state Legislature. KUOW’s Kim Malcolm asked her why she is advocating for this change.
This interview has been edited for clarity.
Tarra Simmons: I think it's really important, both for moral reasons and knowing that this practice is part of the slavery loophole, but also to set people up for success upon reentry, so they can save money for housing and transportation when they come home. Also, while they're currently incarcerated, they can still pay their child support and their victim restitution. I think this will set people up for success, reduce recidivism, and increase public safety.
Kim Malcolm: You mentioned the slavery loophole. Explain that for people in this context.
The 13th Amendment of the United States Constitution abolished slavery and involuntary servitude, except for punishment for a crime. I experienced it myself. I was forced to work for 42 cents an hour while I was incarcerated. I had a variety of jobs. I worked in the laundry, in custodial, and in the kitchen. Some people even manufacture our...
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