FL H0317

District school boards may adopt resolutions authorizing inspirational messages, including student-led prayers of invocation or benediction, at secondary school commencement exercises and other noncompulsory student assemblies.

Any use of prayers must be decided by student government, delivered only by student volunteers, and must be nonsectarian and nonproselytizing in nature.

School personnel are prohibited from participating in or influencing students' decisions regarding whether to use prayers at these events.

The bill's stated purpose is to solemnize and memorialize school events without advancing or endorsing any religion or religious belief.

Effective date: July 1, 2012.