20-7-112. Sectarian publications prohibited -- religious materials allowed -- prayer permitted. (1) (a) A publication of a sectarian or denominational character may not be distributed in any school. Instruction may not be given advocating sectarian or denominational doctrines.

(b) This subsection (1) does not prohibit:

(i) a school library from including the Bible or other religious material having cultural, historical, or educational significance;

(ii) a pupil from reading from the Bible or other religious material during free reading time; or

(iii) a student from initiating or participating in a conversation about religion, religious beliefs, or religious practices. with another student or a teacher.

(c) If a school, class, or course has requirements for self-selected reading, a pupil must be allowed to read from the Bible or other religious material to meet those requirements.

(2) Prayer is permitted in a school, on school grounds, and at school-sponsored events, but a person may not be compelled to pray. The school day may begin with a prayer.