S.D. advocates Bible study in public schools

BLADE STAFF AND NEWS SERVICES

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PIERRE, S.D. -- A measure encouraging South Dakota schools to provide academic instruction on the Bible has won final approval from the state legislature amid criticism from some lawmakers that it could blur the line between government and religion.

The Senate voted 25-10 in January to pass the resolution, which has no force of law. The House passed it last week.

Sen. Elizabeth Kraus (R., Rapid City) said students need to learn about the Bible because it permeates culture, laws, and literature. Many young people know very little about the Bible, and schools can instruct on it without promoting religion, she said. “The Bible is alone in terms of its influence on Western civilization,” she said.

Sen. Tom Hansen (R., Huron) said he opposes the measure because it could get government involved in religious issues.

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