Arizona Bill would require Arizona students to recite the Pledge of Allegiance

Abill that critics say violates students’ constitutional rights by forcing them to recite the Pledge of Allegiance has continued to make its way toward becoming law. 

The bill from Rep. Barbara Parker, R-Mesa, requires that school districts and charter schools set aside a specific time each day for K-12 students to recite the pledge of allegiance. Every Arizona student would be mandated to recite the pledge during this time, unless they have written permission from their parents or if they are 18.

“Although it is true that this bill would not be forcing students to practice religion in a form of prayer, it would enforce compulsory speech and would require students to say ‘under God’ by mandating them to pledge allegiance to the flag without their choice or consent,” Elijah Watson, a member of student coalition Keep Arizona Blue, told lawmakers on the Senate Education Committee during a March 22 hearing.