Require display of the state motto or the state seal in public schools.
Impact
If enacted, HB1198 would directly affect school districts across South Dakota by imposing requirements for the display of state symbols. This requirement signifies a legislative intent to reinforce state identity and values within the educational system. Furthermore, the bill includes protections for school districts and their employees against lawsuits stemming from compliance, whereby the attorney general would provide legal representation at no cost, thereby alleviating financial and legal burdens associated with potential challenges to the display.
Summary
House Bill 1198 aims to require the display of either the motto of South Dakota, "Under God the People Rule," or the state seal in public schools. The legislation mandates that school administrators ensure the selected display is prominently visible in a location frequented by students, such as entryways or cafeterias. The requirements specify dimensions for both the motto and the seal, ensuring that these displays are not only present but also noticeable in the school environment.
Contention
Although HB1198 has garnered support for its intention to promote state pride, it may also face criticism for potentially infringing upon the separation of church and state, given the religious connotation embedded in the state motto. Concerns may arise around the appropriateness of religious phrases in public education settings and whether the bill could provoke legal challenges related to constitutional rights. This discussion is likely to reflect broader societal debates about the role of religion in public institutions, including schools.