Oregon House bill mandates school districts to allow released time for religious courses

House Bill 3695, introduced by Representative Reschke on February 25, 2025, aims to reshape the landscape of religious education in Oregon's public schools by mandating that school districts adopt policies allowing students to attend released time courses for religious instruction. This bill seeks to address the growing demand for religious education options among families while balancing the educational framework within public schools.

Under the proposed legislation, students in kindergarten through eighth grade may be excused for up to two hours per week, while high school students can be excused for up to five hours weekly to attend these courses. The bill defines a "released time course" as a religious instruction program that students can attend during school hours, provided that the school district adopts a policy to facilitate this. Notably, the bill also stipulates that academic credit must be awarded for the completion of these courses, taking into account factors such as classroom instruction time and course materials.

The introduction of House Bill 3695 has sparked notable discussions among lawmakers and community members. Supporters argue that the bill promotes religious freedom and provides families with more educational choices, reflecting the diverse beliefs within Oregon's population. However, critics express concerns about the potential impact on students' academic schedules and the separation of church and state, fearing that this could lead to an erosion of educational standards in public schools.

The implications of this bill extend beyond the classroom. If passed, it could set a precedent for how religious education is integrated into public schooling, potentially influencing similar legislative efforts in other states. Experts suggest that the outcome of this bill could reshape the dialogue around educational policy and religious instruction, highlighting the ongoing tension between educational equity and religious freedom.

As the legislative session progresses, the fate of House Bill 3695 remains uncertain. Community members and educators are encouraged to engage in discussions about the potential impacts of this bill, as it could significantly alter the educational landscape for students across Oregon.