The bill amends sections 15.1-09-33 and 15.1-19-03.1 of the North Dakota Century Code to establish a requirement for public school students to have the opportunity to voluntarily recite the pledge of allegiance each morning. The amendment specifies that each school district must adopt a policy to ensure this opportunity is provided, while also clarifying that students cannot be compelled to recite the pledge, stand during its recitation, or salute the American flag. Additionally, the bill removes the previous authorization for schools to permit students to recite the pledge, replacing it with a mandated policy.

Furthermore, the bill modifies the language regarding student participation in religious speech and prayer, ensuring that students may engage in such activities to the same extent as they can with secular speech. It also allows school boards to permit a moment of silence for meditation, reflection, or prayer at the beginning of the school day. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the rights of students regarding the recitation of the pledge of allegiance and their participation in religious expression within the school environment.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15.1-09-33, 15.1-09-33.5, 15.1-19-03.1
Prepared by the Legislative Council staff for Representative Novak: 15.1-09-33, 15.1-19-03.1
FIRST ENGROSSMENT: 15.1-09-33, 15.1-19-03.1
Enrollment: 15.1-09-33, 15.1-19-03.1