Bill > SB248

This bill amends existing Alabama law to allow public school students to receive elective credit for participating in religious instruction programs during the school day, known as "released time" programs. The bill clarifies that "released time" refers to religious instruction conducted off school district property by a "sponsoring entity," which is defined as a church or other local community-based religious organization. Parents or guardians must provide written consent for their child's participation, and the sponsoring entity must assume liability, maintain attendance records, and ensure no public funds are used beyond minimal administrative costs, with no involvement from public school personnel in providing the instruction. The bill also requires sponsoring entities to conduct background checks on employees or contractors who will have direct contact with students and states that students are responsible for any missed schoolwork. Importantly, students cannot be excused from minimum instructional time for core curriculum or required interventions to attend these religious programs, and the law explicitly states it does not endorse any religious belief, limit school boards' authority over schedules, or prevent them from tailoring policies to their specific needs as long as they comply with the bill's requirements.

Education

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