Arizona Republicans Debate Pledge Of Allegiance Amendment To "Moment Of Silence" Bill

On Thursday, Republicans joined Democrats in defeating an amendment to HB2707, which would require school districts and charter schools (schools) to set aside a time each school day for students to engage in a moment of silence. The amendment would have provided:

1. Specifies school districts and charter schools must set aside a specific time each day for students in kindergarten programs and the 1st-4th grades to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
2. States students in kindergarten programs and the 1st-4th grades must recite the Pledge of Allegiance during the time set aside by the school.
3. Exempts students in kindergarten programs and the 1st-4th grades from having to recite the Pledge of Allegiance during this time at the request of the student's parent.