By: Mike Vasilinda | Capitol News Service

February 13, 2017

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. -- Students could use their religion as the subject of an assigned essay, wear clothing promoting their faith, and even hold a prayer group during school hours if similar non secular activities were allowed under a bill filed in the state Capitol. But the freedom of religious expression legislation would open the door to any faith, not just Christianity.

From prayer groups before, during, and after school, to writing essays about their faith, to drawing a picture of the crucifixion in art class, students with a religious point of view would have the same rights as any other student under a four-page bill filed in the Capitol.

Sponsor Kimberly Daniels says prayer should have never been taken out of schools.

"If we open the door for Christian clubs, for children to join Christian clubs, there would be less people going street gangs," Rep. Daniels says.

There is currently no statewide policy, so decisions on what’s appropriate are made locally, which Co-Sponsor Dennis Baxley says have been stiffing some districts.

"And I think generally there is a chilling effect and a sense by many that you are supposed to sterilize the environment of any free expression. I don’t think that’s healthy," Sen. Baxley says.

While sponsors of this bill really mean Christian freedom of expression, it would do so much more.

When the Capitol was opened to a nativity scene, a devil worship exhibit was also allowed. Florida’s school boards say local control is important.

Andrea Messina, the Executive Director of the Florida School Boards Association, says, "As long as it doesn’t disrupt the learning environment, typically, the clothing is allowed. So, some people’s religion might disrupt some other people learning environment, that’s where, sometimes, conversation in the community is important."

The legislation has been assigned to committees, but no hearings have been set.

The legislation would apply not only to students, but staff and faculty in a school as well.