Kentucky lawmakers have advanced a bill to require public schools to display “In God We Trust” prominently.
The measure easily cleared the House Education Committee on Wednesday and now moves to the full House. The bill calls for the national motto to be displayed prominently in public elementary and secondary Kentucky schools beginning in the 2019-20 school years.
Rep. Brandon Reed, R-Hodgenville, is the bill’s sponsor and noted the motto is already prominently displayed in the Kentucky legislature.
“Above our state seal in this room is our national motto,” he said. “Above the speaker’s chair in our House chamber is the national motto. … On our money that we spend every single day is our national motto.”
The bill said the display may take the form of, but is not limited to, a mounted plaque or student artwork.
The bill defines “prominent location” as a school entry way, cafeteria, or common area where students are likely to see the national motto.
There were some critics to the measure, including Rev. Jason Crosby, a Baptist minister from Louisville, who is also a board member with the American Civil Liberties Union of Kentucky.
“This bill sends a thinly veiled message that only students who believe in God are welcome at their school,” he told the committee.
Rep. Randy Biggs said the motto could help foster improved relationships.
“And I can’t think of a better relationship for anyone to focus on than their relationship with their God,” he said.
By Kentucky Today
