Patriotism Legislation

Patriotism Legislation

Several states considered bills and resolutions related to patriotism during the 2001 session. Additional bills have been filed following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

The Alabama Legislature approved H.J.R. 152, which urges boards of education to incorporate patriotic education into the daily curriculum.

Florida is considering H.R. 25B, which directs each district school board to adopt rules to require programs of a patriotic nature in all public schools.

Illinois considered, but did not pass, H.B. 3628 during the 2001 session. The bill required that the teaching of proper etiquette and honor toward the U.S. flag be included in public school curriculum. It also directed the State Board of Education to approve a curriculum that teaches patriotism.

Kansas also considered, but did not pass, H.B. 2411 during its 2002 session; the bill directs the state board of education to prepare a program providing patriotic exercises for different grades in public and accredited nonpublic schools. The program of patriotic observation shall include daily recitations of the pledge of allegiance and an excerpt from the Declaration of Independence.

The Louisiana House approved H.R. 33, which urges and requests the Board of Elementary and Secondary Education to establish a Patriotism and American Values Week.

Maryland considered, but did not pass, S.J.R. 9, which urged boards of education to introduce instruction to encourage patriotism by including in curriculum a discussion of the sacrifices made by veterans. The curriculum was to be used on or before Veteran’s Day and Memorial Day.

Ohio is considering H.B. 394, a bill that allows a board of education to provide a period of silence to reflect or meditate on a patriotic, moral or philosophic theme. Children cannot be required to participate in the period of silence, and a board of education cannot adopt policies pertaining to religion or religious expression.

Pennsylvania is considering H.B. 1707, which requires supervising officers and teachers at public, private and parochial schools to begin the school day with the pledge of allegiance or the singing of the national anthem.

Washington approved S.R. 865 during its 2001 session. The resolution recognizes the importance of patriotism and loyalty to residents throughout the state and elsewhere in the United States.

Contact Cheryl Runyon in the NCSL Denver office (303) 364-7700, if NCSL can be of further assistance.