Alabama House Passes Bill for Daily Pledge & Prayer

0:00It's March 11th in Birmingham. Let's get into the news. Alabama's House of Representatives passed a bill on Tuesday that will let voters amend the state constitution to require a daily pledge of allegiance, and voluntary student led prayer time in public schools. The measure House Bill 511 cleared with a vote of 94-3, with six abstentions. House Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter strongly backed it and hopes the Senate follows so Alabamians can decide. Ledbetter, who pushed similar laws back in 2019, made the pledge mandatory at the start of each school day and allowed Bible electors for. Grade 6-12. He says about 20 percent of schools aren't following the pledge rule now, and this amendment would let the state superintendent step in, if needed. Supporters like Representative Chris Ingram argue it's time to bring prayer back, rooted in the Christian values that shaped the nation. They point out students can opt out and leave the room, just like some do in the House Chamber. Critics worried about kids feeling pressured or left out, but many shared stories of their own school days, starting with the pledge

1:04and prayer without. Harm. During debate, Representative David Fockner amended the bill to drop strict penalties for non-compliant districts, giving schools more flexibility to set their own policies. Another push to change prayer time to a moment of silence failed in a 74-27 vote. The bill now heads to the Senate. If it passes there, it goes to voters for approval on the constitutional change. Lawmakers see this as a way to teach pride in America and faith. Special thanks to our sponsor for supporting this episode. Your bedtime ritual just got better. Milton Sound, Built in Comfort, ISOL-I-SoliPillow.com