Senate Bill No. [insert bill number] aims to revise education laws in Montana by prohibiting the display of certain flags, banners, and symbols that represent or promote social or political causes on public school property. The bill defines "symbol" and clarifies that the prohibition does not extend to official flags or seals of the United States, the state of Montana, or the U.S. armed forces. Additionally, the bill mandates that the national motto "In God We Trust" be displayed in each public school building and classroom, specifying that the display must be a minimum size of 8 inches by 10 inches and prominently feature the motto in a large, readable font. School districts are authorized to use their own or donated funds for these displays.

Furthermore, the bill amends Section 20-7-112 of the Montana Code Annotated to exclude the display of the national motto from the prohibition against distributing sectarian or denominational publications in public schools. It allows for the inclusion of religious materials in school libraries and permits students to engage in discussions about religion. The bill also includes provisions for severability and establishes an effective date of July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
LC Text: 20-7-112
SB0407_1(1): 20-7-112
SB0407_1(2): 20-7-112
SB0407_1(3): 20-7-112
SB0407_1: 20-7-112