Proposed Bill Would Criminalize IRS Targeting for Religious Views

Written by Don Byrd
In response to the IRS scandal over politically motivated tax audits, an Ohio Congressman is proposing a new law that would criminalize such behavior. Rep. Mike Turner’s (R-OH) legislation would make a felony any IRS discrimination on the basis of religious or political viewpoints or expressions.

Bible Distribution in TN’s Hamilton County Schools

Written by Don Byrd
The Chattanooga Times Free-Press profiled one elementary school’s efforts to deal with Bible distribution given the county’s policies. Their experience raises emerging issues regarding religious neutrality and equal access in schools. Namely, may school officials allow some outside groups to distribute literature while denying religious groups the same access to children to protect chuch-state separation? Does neutrality require no promotion of religion? Or does it require the promotion of all religions?

Arkansas Grade School: If No Prayer, Then No Graduation

Written by Don Byrd
There are a few reasons to check out this piece at Take Part. First, it tells the story of a school district in Arkansas that decided to shut down 6th grade graduation ceremonies altogether, rather than end the practice of having prayer recited during the event. I am not sure 6th graders need graduation ceremonies, but is this a good reason to cancel?

Texas Judge: Religious Messages on Cheerleader Banners OK

Written by Don Byrd
Religious messages on signs football players run through before games at a public high school in Texas are constitutional, according to a federal judge in Texas. The banners, which are created by school cheerleaders and displayed on the field prior to the game, were the subject of an Establishment Clause challenge. After a letter of complaint, the school district became concerned – reasonably so – that the signs create the impression that the school endorses the religious messages.