DIGEST
The digest printed below was prepared by House Legislative Services. It constitutes no part of the
legislative instrument. The keyword, one-liner, abstract, and digest do not constitute part of the law
or proof or indicia of legislative intent. [R.S. 1:13(B) and 24:177(E)]
HB 8 Engrossed 2023 Regular Session Horton
Abstract: Requires the display of the national motto in each classroom in each public school and
in each public postsecondary education institution.
Present law requires each public school governing authority to display the national motto, "In God
We Trust", in each building it uses and in each school under its jurisdiction.
Proposed law changes this requirement from in each building and each school to in each classroom
in each school.
Present law specifies that the nature of the display shall be determined by each governing authority
with a minimum requirement of a paper sign. Proposed law deletes present law and instead requires
that the motto:
(1)Be displayed on a poster or framed document that is at least 11 inches by 14 inches.
(2)Be the central focus of the poster or framed document.
(3)Be printed in a large, easily readable font.
Proposed law additionally requires such display of the national motto in every classroom on public
postsecondary education institution campuses.
Proposed law provides that proposed law does not require spending public funds to purchase
displays.
Proposed law authorizes governing authorities, management boards, and institutions to accept
donated displays and to spend their funds or donated funds to purchase displays.
(Amends R.S. 17:262(A)(2) and (B); Adds R.S. 17:262(C) and 3351(O))
Summary of Amendments Adopted by House
The Committee Amendments Proposed by House Committee on Education to the original bill:
1. Specify physical requirements of the display of the national motto in classrooms.