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Utah House debates requiring schools to display 'In God We Trust'; amendment to add 'E pluribus unum' fails
Summary
Lawmakers debated First Substitute HB79 to require posting the national motto 'In God We Trust' in schools. Supporters framed it as a values measure; opponents warned the motto is 'loaded' and raised concerns about organizational advocacy and potential exclusion. An amendment to add 'E pluribus unum' alongside the motto failed on division; voting was opened but final tally not included in the excerpt.
Representative Richard Sidaway introduced First Substitute House Bill 79 on Jan. 28, proposing that each public school display the national motto “In God We Trust” in one or more prominent locations.
Sidaway framed the bill as a modest step to reinforce civic history and values in schools, saying the requirement would be minimal to implement and "does no harm.” He noted several district courts had upheld similar displays and that the bill…
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