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HB 0861 - Georgia Student Religious Liberties Act of 2014; enact

Tracking Level: Watch
Sponsor: Dustin Hightower
Last Action: 1/31/2014 - House Second Readers
House Committee: Judy
Assigned To:
CurriculumNext Bill
Local Board GovernanceNext Bill
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Staff Analysis of the Legislation

SUMMARY: LC 33 5401 The "Georgia Student Religious Liberties Act of 2014" (Version 2)

Similar to HB 733 with the exception that this version requires that local boards adopt a policy comparable to the detailed and specific model policy listed in this legislation.

  • Local school systems shall not
    • discriminate against students or parents on the basis of a religious viewpoint for religious expression
    • discriminate against students based upon a religious viewpoint expressed on an otherwise permissible subject
  • Students may
    • express beliefs about religion in coursework, artwork, and other written and oral assignments
    • not be penalized or rewarded on the basis of religious content or viewpoint expressed in coursework, etc.
    • pray or engage in religious activities or expression before, during, and after the school day in the same manner and extent students may engage in nonreligious activities or expression
    • organize prayer groups, clubs, etc. and be given the same access to school facilities as other noncurricular student groups and activities
    • wear clothing, accessories and jewelry that display religious messages or symbols in the same manner that other clothing,etc. that display messages or symbols are permitted
  • School systems shall adopt a policy that includes the establishment of a limited public forum for student speakers at all school events at which a student is to publicly speak

The model policy that must be followed includes provisions in the following areas:

  • Student expression of religious viewpoints
  • Student speakers at nongraduation events
  • Student speakers at graduation ceremonies
  • Religious expression in class assignments
  • Freedom to organize religious groups and activities

EFFECTIVE DATE: Upon approval by the General Assembly and signature by the Governor.

 


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