SB14 Summary

• Public schools may offer elective courses in grades 6-12 on the objective study of the Bible and religious history, including separate courses on Old Testament, New Testament, or combined Bible study, plus a religious history course.

• Courses must teach Bible's influence on history, culture, law, government, literature, art, music, and customs while maintaining religious neutrality and accommodating diverse religious perspectives of students.

• School principals may display historic artifacts, monuments, symbols, and religious materials in conjunction with eligible courses as instructional material, provided the display aligns with the course's educational purpose and only lasts during the course duration.

• Teachers cannot be required to teach these courses and are protected from retaliation for declining to teach, including protection from contract non-renewal, termination, transfer, or evaluation penalties.

• The State Attorney General shall defend school boards against litigation related to implementing this act without cost, and the Legislature shall appropriate funds for any fines or court costs ordered against boards.