Vermont, the Student Secular Bill of Rights needs your support!
Introduced by Rep. Monique Priestly with the help of FFRF Action Fund, H. 705 puts strong secular safeguards into Vermont public schools. In an era of inconsistent local interpretations of laws and shifting federal courts, this legislation is vital to protect the rights of every student. Please act now, and do your part to keep proselytizing out of public schools!
The purpose of H. 705 is to codify long-standing Supreme Court Establishment Clause rulings into state law. Additionally, it protects religious freedom for all Vermont public school students and families by ensuring that schools remain neutral on matters of religion. The bill protects students’ right to practice their faith at school, protects students who do not practice any religion and prohibits public schools from sponsoring religious activities such as staff-led prayer, religious displays or religious instruction during class time.
Importantly, H. 705 does not ban student prayer, religious clubs or the wearing of religious clothing or symbols. It does not prevent the academic teaching of religion as history, philosophy or culture. It only reinforces the longstanding rule that public schools must remain neutral.
We’ve seen increasing confusion in schools about what is legally permissible regarding religion. That confusion exposes districts to lawsuits, wastes taxpayer dollars and puts educators in difficult positions. Clear, neutral rules protect schools, teachers and students alike.
A hearing for this bill has not been scheduled yet, so we need the help of advocates like you to speak up now! Please contact ranking members of the House Education Committee and urge them to schedule a committee hearing for H. 705 to protect the religious freedom and parental rights of all Vermont families. We have included talking points that you can edit to your liking by clicking the pencil icon. After sending an email message, you will be directed to a phone prompt that you can use to call your legislators as well. Even leaving a voice message is an effective way to get your point across, so please call if you have the chance! For best results, please be succinct and polite.
(Note: You must live in Vermont to take part in this action alert.)