Committee approves SB 248 tightening rules for release-time religious programs
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Summary
SB 248 was reported favorably as amended. Sponsor Senator Shellnut said the bill clarifies release-time rules by adding local-affiliation limits, a mandatory checkout process, permitted criminal-history checks, and an explicit no-endorsement clause while preserving local control over schedules.
Senator Shellnut presented SB 248 as an update to existing code governing release-time religious instruction. He told the committee the bill removes last-year requirements that forced school policy adoptions, adds a local-affiliation requirement so only churches or local community-based religious groups may run release-time programs, and permits criminal-history background checks for program personnel who will have direct ongoing contact with students.
The sponsor said the bill also adds a mandatory checkout authorization process and clarifies that students remain responsible for missed schoolwork while participating in release time; it explicitly states local boards do not sponsor or supervise the programming and inserts a no-endorsement clause. The measure includes language allowing a local superintendent or board to deny participation when "an objective substantial risk of physical harm" exists.
The committee adopted an amendment clarifying that students may not be excused from the state-board–prescribed minimum instructional time (a change intended to prevent early departures from required coursework for religious release). After amendment adoption, the committee voted to report SB 248 favorably, and the clerk announced the bill was reported out 8-0.
The bill will proceed to the full Senate; its provisions emphasize local control while adding procedural and safety checks for outside organizations offering release-time religious instruction.
