Senate Passes Reynolds Bill Protecting Religious Expression in School

COLUMBUS—State Senator Michele Reynolds (R-Canal Winchester) today announced the passage of Senate Bill 49 by the Ohio Senate, which will require Ohio K-12 public school districts to allow students up to three excused absences per academic year during observed religious holidays or religious activities.

"Today, many students of diverse religious backgrounds in our K-12 public schools have to choose between attending school and practicing their faith," Reynolds said. "The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees freedom of religion and religious expression, and no student should be penalized or have grades suffer due to practicing their religion."

Known as Religious Expression Days (R.E.D), these days would prohibit penalization for being absent and require districts to primitive an opportunity for students to make up any missed examinations or academic work due to the absence. In addition, students will also be eligible to compete in interscholastic sports without penalty.

To learn more about Senate Bill 49, click here.