A Florida House Democrat has introduced a bill aimed at expanding the display of the national motto, “In God We Trust,” in public schools across the state. Rep. Kimberly Daniels, D-Jacksonville, filed House Bill 1009 (HB 1009) on Tuesday, which would require schools to prominently display the motto in key areas, including libraries, cafeterias, gymnasiums, and main offices.
The bill, titled the “Florida Religious Liberty Awareness and Activation Act,” builds on a 2018 law that mandated school boards to adopt rules for displaying “In God We Trust” in schools. However, Daniels’ proposal goes further by specifying that the motto must be displayed on a 22-inch by 28-inch posterboard in “conspicuous locations” within each school.
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“In God We Trust” has been Florida’s official state motto since 2006 and is also the national motto of the United States. The 2018 law emphasized its historical significance, and Daniels’ bill seeks to reinforce its presence in educational settings.
In addition to the display requirements, HB 1009 includes provisions to protect and promote religious expression in public schools. The bill prohibits school districts from discriminating against students, parents, or school personnel based on religious viewpoints or expression. It also allows students to wear clothing, accessories, and jewelry with religious messages or symbols, and permits prayer and religious activities before, during, and after school hours.
The bill further ensures that students cannot be penalized or rewarded for expressing religious viewpoints in coursework, artwork, or other assignments. It also allows school personnel to participate in voluntary, student-initiated religious activities, provided they do not interfere with instructional time.
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HB 1009 also addresses patriotic programs in schools. It requires the national anthem to be played at the beginning of each school day, following a moment of silence. Students who choose not to participate in the anthem, pledge of allegiance, or moment of silence must be excused upon written request from a parent and may stand outside the classroom during these activities.
The bill mandates that schools inform students of their right to opt out of these activities through written notices in student handbooks or similar publications.
Under the proposed legislation, school districts would be required to conduct a public awareness campaign about the display of “In God We Trust,” the inclusion of a moment of silence, and the rights of students and staff to engage in religious expression. Schools must comply with the new requirements by October 1, 2025, or face penalties, including warnings and potential reprimands for noncompliance.
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The Florida Department of Education would be tasked with providing the required posterboards and developing a model policy for implementing the bill’s provisions.
HB 1009 will be considered during the upcoming legislative session, which begins on March 4. If passed, the bill would take effect on July 1, 2025.
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