This bill proposes the creation of new sections in the North Dakota Century Code that mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in state educational institutions and public schools. Specifically, it requires the state board of higher education to display the Ten Commandments in a prominent location within cafeterias of state educational institutions, with the option for additional displays at their discretion. The displays must adhere to specific size and formatting guidelines, and the text of the Ten Commandments is explicitly outlined. Additionally, the state board is tasked with adopting rules for implementation and is permitted to use donated funds for the displays.
Furthermore, the bill allows professors and teachers in higher education and K-12 settings to display the Ten Commandments in their classrooms without needing prior approval from supervisory authorities. School district boards are also required to display the Ten Commandments in school cafeterias and may choose to place them in other locations as deemed appropriate. The bill includes provisions for legal defense against constitutional challenges, ensuring that a private law firm can represent the state board or institutions at no cost.