A Republican Kentucky lawmaker has pre-filed legislation to require all public elementary and secondary schools to display "In God We Trust" in a prominent location.

Rep. Brandon Reed, R-Hodgenville, pre-filed the legislation for the 2019 session, and it would require the display to be shown in areas like a school entryway, cafeteria or other common areas.

“There is no reason for us to be ashamed of our national motto; it is a vital part of our culture,” Reed said. “We are one nation under God, and that reality should be reflected in public life, including in the buildings where our children are being educated.”

If signed into law, Kentucky would join other states like Tennessee, Florida and Arkansas in requiring the signage.

"We need God in our schools now more than ever,” Reed said.

The law would go into effect for the 2019-20 school year if passed during the legislative session.