Senate Bill 1500 Summary

• Amends 70 O.S. 2011, Section 24-106 to require the pledge of allegiance to the United States flag be recited once daily in all public schools during each school day.

• Changes previous law that merely authorized students to recite the pledge to instead mandate daily recitation in all public schools.

• Requires school districts to post notice in conspicuous places informing students they may opt out of participation in the pledge without penalty.

• Maintains existing requirements that school boards display U.S. flags and provide instruction on flag history and etiquette.

• Takes effect July 1, 2014, with an emergency declaration for immediate implementation.