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HSB 32

A bill for an act relating to public schools, including requiring public schools to display the national motto and the state motto and to start each day of classroom instruction with silent time.

2025-2026 Regular Session

HF 166 requires Iowa public schools to display national and state mottos, start each day with two minutes of silent reflection, and display flags, promoting patriotism.

Committee report approving bill, renumbered as HF 166.
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Bill Summary · HSB 32

Summary of HSB 32 (Renumbered as HF 166)

Purpose and Intent

HSB 32, now renumbered as HF 166, is a proposed bill aimed at enhancing patriotic education and promoting a sense of national and state identity within public schools in Iowa. The bill mandates the display of the national and state mottos in schools and introduces a period of silent reflection at the start of each school day.

Key Provisions

The bill includes several important provisions:

  1. Display of Mottos:

    • Public schools, including charter and innovation zone schools, are required to display the national motto of the United States and the state motto of Iowa prominently in the main entryway of each school or in another visible location determined by the school.

  2. Silent Time:

    • Each school day must begin with two minutes of silent time for students. This silent period is to occur immediately before the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance in grades one through twelve.
    • The bill specifies that students are not compelled to recite the Pledge of Allegiance if they or their parents or guardians object.

  3. Flag Display:

    • Schools must maintain a suitable flagstaff and display the United States flag and the Iowa state flag on all school days when weather conditions permit.

Affected Parties

  • Public Schools: The bill directly affects all public school districts, charter schools, and innovation zone schools in Iowa.
  • Students: All students in grades one through twelve will participate in the silent time and have the option to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
  • Parents and Guardians: The bill acknowledges the rights of parents and guardians regarding their children's participation in the Pledge.

Legislative Timeline

  • Introduced: January 15, 2025
  • Subcommittee Meeting: January 21, 2025
  • Subcommittee Recommendation: January 27, 2025
  • Committee Vote: January 28, 2025 (15 in favor, 7 against, 1 excused)
  • Committee Report Approving Bill: January 30, 2025

The bill has progressed through the legislative process, receiving committee approval and being renumbered as HF 166 for further consideration.

Conclusion

HSB 32 (HF 166) seeks to instill a sense of patriotism and state pride in Iowa's students through the display of mottos and the practice of silent reflection. By mandating these practices, the bill aims to foster a respectful and reflective environment in public schools.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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