The bill amends Section 16-1-20.6 of the Code of Alabama 1975, known as the Alabama Released Time Credit Act, to enhance the provision of elective credit for students attending religious instruction during the school day. Key changes include the requirement that local boards of education "shall" implement policies for allowing students to attend released time programs, as opposed to the previous language which stated they "may" do so. The bill also clarifies that students participating in these programs can earn elective credit, with the State Board of Education responsible for establishing rules and minimum attendance standards for credit eligibility.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions that ensure local boards of education retain the authority to customize their policies to meet specific needs, as long as they comply with the new requirements and applicable laws. It also specifies that existing policies permitting released time instruction prior to July 1, 2025, do not need to be amended, 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