MontanaHB 34369th Legislature, Regular Session (2025)HouseWALLET

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.

Credit rules for released-time courses

A school district may choose to give academic credit for released-time religious courses and accept credits from independently accredited providers. If a district gives credit, it must use neutral, secular rules like other courses. Districts may review hours of instruction, the syllabus, tests, and teacher qualifications. Effective July 1, 2025.

Parents can request released-time religious classes

School districts provide a released-time program for religious instruction. Your child may be released if you send a written request, renewed at least each year. Trustees set the schedule, but it is at least 1 hour per week. This time counts as part of the school day and does not hurt attendance or district funding. Effective July 1, 2025.

No public funds or school property for religious classes

Religious instruction under released time cannot occur on public school property. Public money cannot pay for the religious instruction, directly or indirectly. Any fees are covered by families or private groups. Effective July 1, 2025.

Sponsors & Cosponsors

Sponsor

Randyn Gregg
Republican • House

Cosponsors

Braxton Mitchell
Republican • House
Daniel Emrich
Republican • Senate

Roll Call Votes

All Roll Calls

Yes: 164 • No: 130

House vote • 4/18/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 31 • No: 19

House vote • 4/17/2025

Do Concur

Yes: 23 • No: 24

House vote • 3/5/2025

Do Pass

Yes: 56 • No: 42

House vote • 3/4/2025