The proposed bill, titled the Florida Religious Liberty Awareness and Activation Act, aims to enhance religious expression and protect the rights of students, parents, and school personnel in K-12 schools. It prohibits school districts from discriminating against individuals based on their religious viewpoints or expressions, ensuring that students can express their religious beliefs in coursework, artwork, and other assignments without facing penalties or rewards based on the religious content. Additionally, students are authorized to wear religious symbols, engage in prayer, and organize religious gatherings, while school personnel are allowed to participate in voluntary, student-initiated religious activities. The bill also mandates that school districts provide equal access to facilities for religious groups and adopt a limited public forum policy for student speakers at school events.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing law to require the national anthem to be played at the beginning of each school day and includes provisions for a public awareness campaign regarding the display of the state motto, "In God We Trust." The Department of Education is tasked with developing a model policy on religious expression, which each district school board must adopt. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
S 1504 Filed: 1003.44