Moment of Silence bill heads to Governor’s desk

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT)- A bill which would require a moment of silence before each school day in Kentucky is now on its way to Governor Beshear’s desk. Senate Bill 19 would require moments of silence or reflection at the start of each school day lasting at least one minute, but not exceeding two minutes in length.

The bill outlines that students are to remain seated and silent so that others may exercise their individual choice to “meditate, pray or engage in any other silent activity.” A late amendment to the bill would also require that local school boards give students the option to travel off campus for up to an hour each week to receive “moral instruction” with a parent or guardian’s permission.

The bill does not include any punishment for districts which do not enact a moment of silence.