The New Jersey Senate approved 30-4 yesterday a controversial “silent prayer” bill following a hot debate. The State Assembly had previously passed the measure. It went to Gov. Richard J. Hughes who was expected to veto it. He had vetoed similar legislation in 1968.
The measure, which would require all public school pupils to participate in a daily period of silent prayer, was opposed by Jewish community councils and national Jewish community relations agencies in the state. They held that the law would create a serious conflict for many pupils who, because of pressure from teachers and classmates, might feel obligated to act in violation of personal beliefs.
Opponents said that measure was a “dodge to get around the United States Supreme Court decision” which prohibits public school prayer. The sponsor. Sen. Frank S. Farley, a Republican, said “prayer is needed in our country. This country could use more of God today. By our example, we can show our children we respect God.” Jewish opponents of the bill said that the place for religious worship was in the home, synagogue or church but not school.
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