No state has a longer, more profit-driven history of contracting prisoners out to private companies than Alabama.

Summary

Alabama profits from a vast prison labor system, earning over $250 million since 2000 by leasing incarcerated workers to private companies like McDonald’s and Home Depot.

While inmates earn at least $7.25/hour, the state deducts 40% plus additional fees, leaving many with only $100-$200 weekly.

Inmates working outside prisons face risks, including unsafe conditions and lack of oversight, leading to fatalities like a recent van crash that killed two prisoners.

Critics argue this system exploits incarcerated workers, many denied parole despite holding jobs deemed too dangerous for release.

Advocates call for fair pay, workplace rights, and reform.

  • w3dd1e@lemm.ee
    18·
    1 day ago

    There were a lot of companies listed in the article. I was surprised this was such a wide practice. It’s really icky.

    Burger King, Home Depot, and KFC were on the list just ti name a few major ones.

    There were also a lot of local businesses too. I recommend everyone look at the list.

    • MutilationWave@lemmy.world
      8·
      1 day ago

      For anyone who needs tools, hardware, building materials, etc - I encourage you to check local hardware stores first, then Lowe’s or Menard’s, and use Home Depot as a last resort. Home Depot not only does this, but donates huge amounts of money to Christian conversion therapy bullshit.

      I lost a double sided bit for my favorite screwdriver. Home Depot is the only place that sells it. Instead I bought a different brand bit at Lowe’s and drilled a hole in my driver to hold it properly.

      • w3dd1e@lemm.ee
        3·
        1 day ago

        It’s in the article. There’s a searchable table you can sort by labor hours.