Kentucky Bill Regarding Religious Viewpoints in Public Schools (SB 17)

SB 17 would prohibit public schools from hindering or discriminating against a religious or political student organization in the ordering of its internal affairs, selection of leaders and members, defining of doctrines and principles, and resolving of organizational disputes in the furtherance of its mission, or in its determination that only persons committed to its mission should conduct such activities.

The bill goes on to provide additional protections for religious and political activities of students. Such rights are already afforded under the United States Constitution.

The bill would allow student organizations at colleges, universities, and high schools to discriminate against LGBTQ students.

STATUS

Passed the senate on February 10, 2017, by a 31-3 vote.

Passed the house on March 6, 2017, by a 81-8 vote.

Signed by Gov. Matt Bevin (R) on March 16, 2017.

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