MontanaHB 34369th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)House

Require schools to provide religious instruction released time program

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Bill Overview

Analyzed Economic Effects

3 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.

Parents can request weekly religious released time

Beginning July 1, 2025, every district provides a released time program for religious instruction. A parent or guardian must make a written request and renew it each year. Trustees set the schedule, but it must be at least 1 hour each week. Released time counts as part of the school day and week. It does not hurt a student's attendance, enrollment, or the district's ANB funding.

Possible school credit for released time

Beginning July 1, 2025, districts may give academic credit for released time religious courses. If they do, they must use neutral, secular criteria like hours, syllabus, assessments, and teacher qualifications. Districts may also recognize credit from independently accredited providers. Your student gets credit only if your district adopts this policy and approves the course.

No school property or public funds for religious instruction

Beginning July 1, 2025, religious instruction for released time must be off public school property. Schools cannot use public money, directly or indirectly, to pay for the instruction. Districts and providers must arrange off‑campus space. Families or private groups cover any costs. Travel or scheduling may be less convenient.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Randyn Gregg
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Braxton Mitchell
Republican • House
Daniel Emrich
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 167 • No: 130

Senate vote • 4/18/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 31 • No: 19

Senate vote • 4/17/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 26 • No: 24

House vote • 3/5/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 56 • No: 42

House vote • 3/4/2025