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HB 1371

"Released-Time Court Act; enact to require school districts to adopt policy to excuse students for religious study.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Dan Eubanks

Bill would mandate Mississippi school districts create policies to excuse students during school for religious study or instruction.

Died In Committee
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Bill Summary · HB 1371

Legislative bill overview

HB 1371 would require Mississippi school districts to adopt policies allowing students to be excused from school to attend religious instruction or study during school hours. The bill mandates that districts create procedures for releasing students for these religious activities, similar to "released-time" programs that have existed in various states.

Why is this important

Released-time programs raise questions about the proper separation of public education and religious instruction, while supporters argue they accommodate religious practice and parental rights. The bill's passage would have affected how school districts balance secular education schedules with students' religious observance needs, potentially creating administrative burdens or liability concerns for districts.

Potential points of contention

  • Constitutional concerns: Critics may argue mandatory released-time policies could violate the Establishment Clause by having public schools actively facilitate religious instruction, while supporters cite historical precedent and religious freedom protections
  • Practical implementation: Districts would need to develop attendance tracking, liability waivers, and procedures for supervising released students, creating administrative costs and potential equity issues if some religions receive more accommodation than others
  • Educational impact: Questions exist about whether regular release times would disrupt classroom instruction, disadvantage students who don't participate, and whether districts should be required versus permitted to offer such programs

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

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