TENNESSEE: Senate Passes "Religious Viewpoints Anti-Discrimination Act"

The Tennessee state senate has unanimously passed a bill that outlaws preventing students from expressing religious beliefs in class. Critics say the bill is a transparent attempt to crowbar Christian indoctrination into public schools.

The measure sponsored by Republican Sen. Kerry Roberts of Springfield was approved 29-0 on Wednesday. The companion bill is awaiting a vote on the House floor. Roberts says the proposal requires school districts to treat a student's religious expression the same as they would a secular viewpoint. Students would also have access to school facilities to organize student prayer groups or other religious gatherings. Democratic Sen. Beverly Marrero of Memphis, who abstained from voting, questioned whether the bill is "trying to make schools similar to Sunday schools."

RELATED: Last month the Tennessee senate approved a bill that will allow teachers to advocate for creationism and against climate change.