Bibles Returning to State Parks, Says Governor Deal

Governor Nathan Deal says the state will return Bibles to guest cabins and lodge rooms at Georgia parks following their recent removal by Georgia Department of Natural Resources managers, MyFoxAtlanta.com reports. 

The Bibles were removed while a final decision was made on the response to a citizen complaint about Bibles on state property. 

According to a press release from Gov. Deal's office, “Out of an abundance of caution to avoid potential litigation, the commissioner removed the Bibles from rooms – though they were still available on site – after a complaint from a visitor. The attorney general and I agree that the state is on firm legal footing as we move to return the Bibles to the rooms. These Bibles are donated by outside groups, not paid for by the state, and I do not believe that a Bible in a bedside table drawer constitutes a state establishment of religion. In fact, any religious group is free to donate literature.”

MyFoxAtlanta reports Bibles traditionally have been placed in guest rooms at the state's six lodges and in dozens of rental cabins. 

Management at Fort Yargo State Park was unavailable Wednesday to respond to questions about whether there were any Bibles at the Winder park's facilities. A clerk said a manager would be out of the office until Friday. 

What do you think about the state's decision to return the Bibles?