Concerns over religious coercion in North Dakota schools took center stage during the House Judiciary meeting on January 14, 2025. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) voiced strong opposition to a proposed bill, arguing it is unconstitutional and unnecessary, particularly regarding the potential for religious coercion among students in public schools.

The ACLU representative emphasized that students are a "captive audience" in schools, making them vulnerable to any official religious messages. They pointed out that federal courts have consistently ruled against imposing such messages in educational settings. The testimony highlighted a recent court case involving a public school football coach, which allowed voluntary prayer but distinguished it from mandatory religious displays, asserting that students should not be compelled to participate in religious activities.

The ACLU also noted that North Dakota students already have ample opportunities for religious expression through existing educational resources, such as social studies curricula and the ability to wear religious-themed clothing. They argued that the proposed legislation would infringe upon the rights of students from diverse religious backgrounds and could lead to coercion.

In response to questions from lawmakers, the ACLU representative reiterated that the bill's intent, while framed as a matter of history and tradition, could still lead to religious instruction that is not objective or academic. They stressed the importance of recognizing the current diversity of beliefs in society, contrasting it with historical norms.

As the discussion unfolded, the ACLU urged lawmakers to reject the bill, citing both constitutional concerns and the sufficiency of existing laws that protect religious expression without imposing it on students. The meeting underscored the ongoing debate over the role of religion in public education and the balance between tradition and constitutional rights.