On Monday, the Texas legislature gave
final passage and sent to the governor for his signature
HB 308 that attempts to protect public schools' teaching about Christmas and Hanukkah. The bill provides:
(a) A school district may educate students about the history of traditional winter celebrations, and allow students and district staff to offer traditional greetings regarding the celebrations, including: (1)"Merry Christmas"; (2)"Happy Hanukkah"; and (3)"happy holidays."
(b) Except as provided by Subsection (c), a school district may display on school property scenes or symbols associated with traditional winter celebrations, including a menorah or a Christmas image such as a nativity scene or Christmas tree, if the display includes a scene or symbol of: (1) more than one religion; or (2) one religion and at least one secular scene or symbol.
(c) A display relating to a traditional winter celebration may not include a message that encourages adherence to a particular religious belief.
National Post reports on the bill's passage.
