The bill, S.B. No. 380, proposes the addition of Section 25.0823 to the Education Code, which mandates that school districts and open-enrollment charter schools provide a daily period for prayer and the reading of the Bible or other religious texts. This policy can be adopted through a record vote by the school board or governing body and must include a resolution that specifies the requirement for each campus. Participation in this period is voluntary and requires a signed consent form from a parent or guardian, acknowledging the choice to participate and waiving any legal claims against the school related to this policy.

Additionally, the bill amends Section 25.901 to clarify that students have the right to pray or meditate individually and silently during school hours without disruption. It removes the language that previously encouraged or coerced students regarding their participation in prayer or meditation. The bill requires school boards to vote on the adoption of the new policy within six months of its enactment and is set to take effect in the 2025-2026 school year, unless it receives immediate effect approval from the legislature.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: Education Code 25.901 (Education Code 25)