Bill > HB272

This bill requires public schools with students in kindergarten through sixth grade to provide daily time and space for students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and Hawaii Ponoi (the Hawaiian state song), while ensuring that participation is entirely voluntary. The bill specifically prohibits schools from compelling students to participate against their or their parents' wishes, and prevents teachers or staff from punishing or harassing students who choose to participate or not participate in the recitation. Similarly, teachers cannot be disciplined for choosing to lead or not lead the recitation. The bill aims to build a foundation of respect and love for the heritage of Hawaii and the United States by facilitating these patriotic expressions, and requires schools to post a copy of these guidelines in a conspicuous location. The Department of Education is tasked with creating rules to implement this section, and the law will take effect upon approval. The bill explicitly protects individual choice and prevents any form of coercion or punishment related to the pledge and song recitation.