GREEN SHEET REDIGEST
HB 8 2023 Regular Session Horton
SCHOOLS. Requires display of the national motto, "In God We Trust", in every
public elementary, secondary, and postsecondary education classroom.
DIGEST
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 in
charter schools and 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.
Proposed law requires the provisions of proposed law to be applicable on and after August
1, 2026.
(Amends R.S. 17:262(A)(2) and (B); Adds R.S. 17:262(C), 3351(O)), and 3996(B)(75))
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.
The House Floor Amendments to the engrossed bill:
1. Make proposed law applicable to charter schools.
Summary of Amendments Adopted by Senate
Committee Amendments Proposed by Senate Committee on Education to the
reengrossed bill
1. Require the provisions of proposed law to be applicable on and after August 1,
2026.
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Prepared by Michael Bell.