Bill > HB342

This bill amends Alabama's existing law regarding "released time" religious instruction for public school students, changing several key provisions. Currently, local school districts may optionally implement released time programs, but this bill would now require all school districts to allow students to participate in off-campus religious instruction during the school day under specific conditions. These conditions include parental written consent, maintained attendance records, liability assumed by the sponsoring private entity, no public funds expended beyond minimal administrative costs, and no school personnel involvement in religious instruction. Significantly, the bill changes language from "may" to "shall" regarding both district policy implementation and student credit, meaning students who participate shall now earn elective course credit in grades where credit is earned. The bill preserves existing protections, such as prohibiting students from being released from core curriculum classes and requiring that transportation be entirely the responsibility of the private entity, parent, or student. The legislation is rooted in the 1952 Supreme Court case Zorach v. Clauson, which upheld the constitutionality of released time programs, and is designed to provide a constitutionally acceptable method for offering religious instruction while protecting student and school rights. The bill will become effective on July 1, 2025.

Education

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search