(Texas Scorecard) – Senators voted Tuesday in favor of legislation that would return prayer to K-12 schools.
Senate Bill 11 by State Sen. Mayes Middleton (R-Galveston) would permit all public schools to adopt a policy providing students and employees with an opportunity to participate in a period of prayer and reading of the Bible or other religious text on each school day.
“Our schools are not God-free zones,” said Middleton. He highlighted that the measure makes space for religious expression but does not make it compulsory, nor does it interfere with instructional time.
Employees and the parent or guardian of each student would have to sign a consent form acknowledging their choice to participate.
The measure passed the Senate in a 23-7 vote.
“Religious freedom is a bedrock principle upon which America was founded, recognizing our rights come directly from God, not the government,” stated Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick after the measure passed the chamber.
Patrick listed SB 11 as one of his priorities for the legislative session, “to make sure religious freedom is not infringed upon in Texas, ensuring our students and educators have the right to pray on school grounds.”
SB 11 will now be sent to the House for consideration. If approved, it would take effect in the 2025-2026 school year.
Senators also advanced legislation that would place the Ten Commandments in school classrooms, but the measure must receive final approval on Wednesday before being sent to the House.