The Senate passed SB280 on Tuesday, which would allow teachers in public schools to discuss all scientific theories with their students, including intelligent design.
The committee substitute says no public school board, superintendent or principal can prohibit a teacher from discussing or answering questions about scientific theories about how the universe or life came to exist.
Hayden Hodge, a junior at Hurricane High school, addressed the Education Committee last week and told lawmakers that the idea for the bill came to him from a science teacher who wished he could discuss intelligent design as an option but feared repercussions.
Senator Mike Woelfel (D-Cabell, 05) strongly opposed the bill, citing the vagueness of the legislation and his belief that it is unconstitutional.
A similar bill passed the Senate last year before stalling in the House Education Committee.
The Senate is adjourned until tomorrow, Jan. 24, at 11 a.m.
Afternoon Meetings:
Energy began at 1 p.m. in 208W
Health began at 1 p.m. in 451M
Judiciary will meet at 3 p.m. in 208W
Finance will meet at 3 p.m. in 451M
Morning Meetings for Jan. 24:
Agriculture and Natural Resources will meet at 10 a.m. in 208W
