SF805 (Legislative Session 94 (2025-2026))
Student Religious Liberties Act establishment
Related bill: HF273
AI Generated Summary
The proposed bill, labeled the "Student Religious Liberties Act," aims to ensure that students in public schools in Minnesota can freely express their religious views without facing discrimination. It clarifies several key points:
Equality in Expression: Schools cannot discriminate against students or parents for their religious viewpoints in expression or participation. Students must be allowed to include religious perspectives in their schoolwork, such as homework and other assignments, and these should be graded on academic standards without penalization or rewards based on the religion content.
Religious Activities at School: Students can organize and participate in religious activities, including prayer groups and religious clubs, with the same rights and access to school facilities as non-religious groups. They're also allowed to wear religious symbols or attire to the same extent that other expressive symbols or attire are permitted.
Freedom of Religious Expression at School Events: Schools must create a "limited public forum" policy for events where students speak, ensuring no discrimination against religious viewpoints. This includes providing disclaimers that such student expressions do not reflect the school's views.
Local Policy Requirement: Each school district must adopt policies accommodating these rights to religious expressions and activities.
State Model Policy: The state will develop a model policy to assist schools with implementation, covering aspects such as the creation of limited public forums and ensuring non-discriminatory student selection for speaking events.
Compliance and Grievances: Procedures will be established for reviewing compliance with these policies and addressing grievances related to noncompliance.
The bill emphasizes that it does not authorize state-sanctioned religious activities nor override existing legal safeguards that protect order and discipline within educational settings.
Bill text versions
- Introduction PDF file
Actions
Date | Chamber | Where | Type | Name | Committee Name |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
January 29, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Introduction and first reading | |
January 29, 2025 | Senate | Floor | Action | Referred to | Education Policy |