Bill > HB343

This bill modifies Montana state law regarding religious instruction released time programs in public schools, changing the existing voluntary program to a mandatory one. School district trustees will now be required to provide a religious instruction released time program that allows students at least one hour per week to receive religious instruction outside of regular school hours. The bill requires that such programs cannot use public school property for religious instruction and cannot use public funds directly or indirectly for religious instruction. Importantly, the bill gives school district trustees the option to adopt a policy that awards academic credit for these released time courses, with specific guidelines for evaluating such courses. When awarding credit, school districts must use neutral, secular criteria such as classroom instruction time, course syllabus review, assessment methods, and instructor qualifications. The credit decision must be made without considering religious content or denominational affiliation, and the released time cannot negatively impact a student's enrollment status, attendance record, or school funding calculations. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025.

Education

https://bills.legmt.gov/#/laws/bill/2/LC2657