Signed by Governor Rick Scott

Vote Smart's Synopsis:

Vote to pass a bill that prohibits school districts from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel on the basis of religious viewpoints or expression, effective July 1, 2017.

Highlights:

• Prohibits school districts from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel on the basis of a religious viewpoint or expression (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes students to express religious beliefs in coursework, artwork, or other written and oral assignments, and to wear religious clothing, accessories, and jewelry (Sec. 1).

• Authorizes students to participate in prayer and religious activities or expression before, during, and after the school day to the same extent a student may engage in secular activities (Sec. 1).

• Requires school districts to give religious groups access to the same school facilities given to secular groups (Sec. 1).

• Prohibits school districts from preventing school personnel from participating in religious activities initiated by students on school grounds before or after the school day (Sec. 1).

Full Bill Text