Bill > SB240

This bill, titled the "Student Secular Bill of Rights," establishes and clarifies student rights regarding secular education and religious liberty in Kentucky public schools. It defines key terms like "academic study of religion" (the objective examination of religious traditions for scholarly purposes, not to promote any belief), "endorsement" (school approval of religion), and "religious activity" (practices intended primarily for religious purposes). The bill grants students the right to practice their religion freely as long as it's orderly and doesn't disrupt school, the right to not practice any religion, and the right to be free from school-sponsored religious teachings, practices, or displays, including prayer led by school officials or students when endorsed by the school, and religious instruction like creationism. It also prohibits school-sponsored religious messaging and mandates that any academic study of religion include multiple perspectives. The bill allows for reasonable accommodations for religious practices, such as scheduling or dietary needs, and protects students' right to refuse religious discussions or proselytizing from other students. Furthermore, it prohibits schools from offering incentives for participation in religious activities. To enforce these rights, school districts must establish a formal grievance procedure with specific timelines for acknowledging, investigating, and responding to complaints, and students or parents can file lawsuits for violations within two years, with the possibility of recovering attorney fees and costs, and waiving sovereign and governmental immunity for such claims. The bill also prohibits retaliation against school officials who report violations in good faith. The Kentucky Department of Education is directed to create model policies and training materials by specific dates, and school districts must provide compliance training to their officials starting in the 2026-2027 school year. Finally, the bill amends existing laws to remove provisions allowing the recitation of the Lord's Prayer, requiring a moment of silence or reflection, referencing the Bible in teaching about holidays, and displaying "In God We Trust" in schools, while also repealing several related statutes.

https://apps.legislature.ky.gov/record/26RS/sb240.html