MN SF4608

Allows athletic department staff members (coaches, athletic directors, and related employees) to designate a place and time before or after student athletic activities for public silent prayer that others may voluntarily participate in, based on First Amendment and Minnesota Constitution free exercise protections.

Prohibits athletic department staff members from discriminating, disciplining, or taking adverse action against student athletes who choose not to participate in designated silent prayer.

Permits athletic staff members and student athletes to pursue civil lawsuits in court for violations, with potential recovery of attorney fees, costs, injunctive relief, and other appropriate remedies.

Requires the State High School League to adopt a policy prohibiting discrimination or adverse action against student athletes or athletic staff exercising rights under this law.

Clarifies that the law does not prohibit staff members from engaging in nonsilent prayer during activities or verbal prayer before, during, or after student athletic activities.