NE LB550

School districts must adopt a policy by July 1, 2025 allowing students to be excused for at least one class period per week to attend religious instruction courses offered by private sponsoring entities

Written parental consent is required, and transportation must be provided by the sponsoring entity or parent—not the school district; sponsoring entities assume liability for students during released time

Students attending released time courses count as present at their school for funding and attendance purposes; no school district funds may be expended beyond minimal administrative costs

School districts may award academic credit for released time courses if evaluated using secular criteria (classroom hours, syllabus review, assessment methods, instructor qualifications) without testing religious content

Aggrieved persons may bring civil action against violating school districts and recover actual damages, equitable relief, and reasonable attorney's fees; the bill takes effect immediately as emergency legislation