Bill > HB8

This bill allows local school boards and public charter school governing bodies to vote on whether to permit campus chaplains to serve as volunteers in their schools starting in the 2025-2026 school year. If approved, these chaplains can provide support, services, and programs at a teacher's request. Chaplains are not required to have state teaching certification but must complete a recognized chaplain training program. Before volunteering, chaplains must undergo a criminal background check, and schools are prohibited from accepting volunteers who are registered sex offenders. The term "public school" in this context includes traditional public K-12 schools and public charter schools. The bill provides a framework for schools to optionally integrate volunteer chaplains into their educational environments, giving local authorities the discretion to decide whether to implement this volunteer program. The provisions will take effect on July 1, 2026, allowing schools time to prepare and make informed decisions about adopting the policy.

Education

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