The bill amends Section 16-1-20.6 of the Code of Alabama 1975, known as the Alabama Released Time Credit Act, to establish clearer guidelines for public K-12 education regarding elective credit for students attending religious instruction during the school day. Key changes include a mandate that local boards of education "shall" implement policies for allowing students to attend released time as an elective course, replacing the previous language that allowed them to "may" do so. The bill also specifies that students participating in released time can earn elective credit, which will be calculated as part of the actual school day, and outlines the responsibilities of the sponsoring entity regarding attendance records and liability.

Additionally, the bill clarifies that local boards of education have the authority to tailor their policies to meet specific needs, as long as they comply with the requirements of the section and applicable laws. It also states that existing policies permitting released time instruction prior to July 1, 2025, do not need to be amended or altered, provided they remain compliant with relevant regulations. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 16-1-20
Engrossed: 16-1-20