The bill S. 752 amends Section 59-1-460 of the South Carolina Code of Laws regarding excused school attendance for religious instruction. The key change requires each school district board of trustees to adopt a policy that allows students to be excused from school to attend religious instruction classes conducted by private entities, provided certain conditions are met. These conditions include obtaining written consent from a parent or guardian, maintaining attendance records by the sponsoring entity, and ensuring that transportation and liability for the student are the responsibility of the sponsoring entity or the student's family. Additionally, it specifies that no public funds or school personnel may be involved in the religious instruction.

The bill also clarifies that while students are attending these religious instruction classes, they are not considered absent from school, but they are responsible for making up any missed schoolwork. Importantly, students cannot be released from core academic classes to attend these religious instruction classes. The act will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 59-1-460
Latest Version: 59-1-460