By Aashvi Patel, Saint James Academy
Tomorrow-TODAY Staff Writer
Senate bill #55 by Lily Landers sparked controversy by proposing the requirement of the Bible as a reference when teaching the historical background of constitutional decisions made by key figures in U.S. history. Furthermore, Landers proposes the mandated incorporation of the Bible into the AP Government course for its curriculum, exams, and coursework.
Lily Landers, Spain park High School. Photo by Gracie Everly
The Supreme Court has raised concerns about the bill’s constitutionality, noting issues such as religious freedom and its influence on public education, their primary concern being whether this bill infringes upon the principle of separation of church and state. While the opponents of this bill argue that requiring the Bible in public school courses could violate the First Amendment–which protects religious freedom and prevents government endorsement of religion, senators in favor of the bill contend that the Bible’s role would be purely historical, used to understand how the Founding Fathers–who were debatably Christian–were influenced in their decision-making.
Landers argues that studying the Bible in this context would be nondenominational and academic rather than religious. The Attorney General argues that the bill presents serious constitutional challenges, including the separation of church and state, religious and educational freedom, and secular education vs. religious indoctrination. Additionally, the Attorney General argues that requiring every AP Government classroom to purchase Bibles raises legal and financial concerns. The U.S. Constitution cannot be altered to accommodate a law that contradicts its principles. Due to these reasons, the Supreme Court would strike down Senate bill #55 as unconstitutional.