HB 255 Summary

• Authorizes local boards of education to adopt policies allowing high school students to be excused from school to attend religious instruction classes conducted by private entities, provided written parental consent is obtained.

• Students participating in released time religious instruction may earn up to one elective course credit as determined by the local board of education, which may establish minimum standards for curriculum and participation requirements.

• Requires the sponsoring religious entity to maintain attendance records, provide transportation (including for students with disabilities), assume liability, and use no public funds or school personnel in delivering instruction.

• Prohibits students from being released from required core curriculum classes to attend religious instruction and requires students to make up any missed schoolwork.

• Attendance at released time religious instruction classes is not counted as a school absence under the bill, which becomes effective three months after passage and gubernatorial approval.