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Senator Scott Proposes U.S. Amendment to Permit School Bible Reading

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A resolution proposing the amendment of the United States Constitution, to enable students in public schools to engage in prayer or meditation, and read the Bible or other Holy books, was submitted in the Senate today by Senator Hugh Scott, Pennsylvania Republican.

The Senator, in submitting his amendment, claimed that his proposal was different from other constitutional amendments proposed on this subject in both Houses of Congress. He said that his amendment would permit, but not require, prayers, Bible reading, etc., in public schools.

The proposed amendment is contained in the first of two paragraphs submitted by Senator Scott, declaring: “Nothing contained in this Constitution shall be construed to prohibit prayer, meditation or reading from the Bible or other Holy books by students in any school or educational institution supported in whole or in part from any public funds, provided that such activity by students is voluntary.” The second paragraph deals with the customary provision requiring approval by three-fourths of the State Legislature.

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