Alabama Senate Faces Challenges Over Religious Education Bill
The bill regarding Religious Released Time Education, which received approval from the U.S. Supreme Court, is encountering significant hurdles in the Alabama Senate, even after gaining committee backing.
Last week, the Senate Education Policy Committee endorsed the bill with an 8-1 vote, showing some bipartisan support. It mandates that local school boards implement specific policies permitting off-campus religious education with parental consent.
A similar measure previously failed in the Alabama Legislature, where lawmakers from both parties voted against it in the House Education Policy Committee by 9-4.
Currently, the Senate’s version is facing intense criticism from the Alabama Supervisors Association and the Alabama Board of Education. During the committee meeting, representatives from these groups presented what many consider misleading information, leading to confusion and misrepresentation among individual association members regarding the legislation.
They argue that the bill imposes “restrictive state laws” that undermine local school board autonomy. However, proponents of the bill assert that this interpretation is incorrect. The bill explicitly states that it does not limit local school boards’ authority to establish their policies, as long as they comply with relevant laws and regulations.
State Senator Shay Chernutt (R-Trussville), who is championing the bill, emphasized this point in the committee, stating that local committees hold the power to make decisions about credit, instructional times, and other factors related to the program.
He argued that the legislation offers flexibility and local control instead of imposing stringent requirements. In fact, it might provide more local autonomy than most educational laws passed in this legislative session.
Despite the bill’s intentions, communications from the Alabama Board of Education have repeatedly claimed that SB278 would strip local boards of authority. In reality, the bill enables local committees to create policies tailored to their districts.
Chernutt contended that the flexibility of the policy allows districts to address their specific needs effectively—the conditions may vary based on local circumstances, including time constraints.
Supporters of the bill include various local groups, with parents and religious organizations from across Alabama voicing their approval. Lifewise Academy, an out-of-state advocate, seeks parental signatures and partnerships with local churches to ensure community support before approaching school boards.
The bill responds to requests from parents and religious groups for these educational opportunities. The Alabama Board of Education’s newsletters suggest a deliberate conspiracy to manipulate state laws, although supporters deny such claims.
During discussions, Martie Griffin from First Baptist Church on the Gulf illustrated how local churches offering these programs have faced obstacles in implementation.
Governor Ainsworth, who supports the bill, expressed frustration with opponents, indicating they have yet to provide valid reasoning against it. He noted that thousands of students from various states already benefit from similar programs, suggesting Alabama should follow suit.
This law would use private funding rather than taxpayer money, and school staff would not participate in religious education delivery. It also requires programs to ensure student safety during transportation and documentation of attendance.
In essence, the bill permits religious education under local school board policies and necessitates parental consent, with a vote in the Senate expected soon.
