MN HF23

Prohibits public school districts from discriminating against students or parents based on religious viewpoint or religious expression, requiring equal treatment of religious expression compared to secular expression on permissible subjects.

Allows students to express religious beliefs in homework, artwork, and assignments without penalty or reward based on religious content, with evaluation based on ordinary academic standards of substance and relevance.

Permits students to pray, organize religious groups and activities, and wear religious clothing, accessories, and jewelry before, during, and after school to the same extent as nonreligious activities, with equal access to school facilities and advertising.

Requires school districts to adopt a local policy establishing a limited public forum for student speakers at school events using neutral selection criteria, with school disclaimers stating the district does not endorse student religious speech.

Directs the commissioner of education to develop and maintain a state model policy in consultation with school administration and principal associations, and to establish procedures for reviewing compliance, investigating complaints, and allowing students and parents to file complaints about noncompliance.