HJR 62 -- Religious Freedom in Public Places

Sponsor:  McGhee

Upon voter approval, this proposed constitutional amendment
guarantees a citizen's First Amendment right to pray and worship
in all public areas including schools as long as the activities
are voluntary and subject to the same rules and regulations that
apply to all other types of speech.

The amendment reaffirms a citizen's right to choose any religion
or no religion at all by prohibiting the establishment of an
official state religion and the state from coercing any person to
participate in any prayer or other religious activity.

Public schools receiving state funds are required to display the
text of the Bill of Rights of the Constitution of the United
States in a conspicuous and legible manner.

The amendment also reaffirms the right of employees and elected
officials of the State of Missouri to pray on government premises
and public property.  The bill ensures the General Assembly and
other political subdivisions the right to have ministers and
clergymen offer prayers or invocations at meetings or sessions of
the General Assembly or other governing bodies.

The amendment does not expand the religious rights of prisoners
beyond those guaranteed by existing federal laws.

Missouri House of Representatives
95th General Assembly, 2nd Regular Session
Last Updated September 14, 2010 at 3:14 pm