Bill Would Require West Virginia Schools To Offer Bible Elective

CHARLESTON, WV — State lawmakers in West Virginia have proposed legislation that would require all schools in the state offer an elective course about Hebrew Scriptures, the Old Testament of the Bible or the New Testament. Republican State Sens. Mike Azinger of Wood and Sue Cline of Wyomning introduced the bill on Thursday.

The bill said it aims to teach students about biblical content, characters, poetry and narratives, which it says are" prerequisites to understanding contemporary society and culture," including literature, art, music, mores, oratory and public policy.

Under the bill, students would be allowed to use a translation of their choosing. Teachers would have to receive a certification.

The proposed law would also require federal and state laws be followed in relation to religious neutrality. Schools would also have to accommodate students' diverse religious views too.

The bill was sent to the committee on education.

Click here to review the full bill.

Photo credit: Sue Ogrocki/Associated Press