JACKSON, Miss. (AP) -- Supporters say bills designed to guarantee religious freedom in Mississippi schools are meant to ensure students can talk about spiritual beliefs and aren't deprived of their rights.
But some supporters also say the measures would legalize prayer before school audiences. That makes people who advocate for separation of church and state uneasy.
Both the state House and Senate have passed bills, and they must agree on one version before anything would go to Republican Gov. Phil Bryant. The bill is the first of its kind passed by the Senate, improving chances it will become law.
The measures would guarantee student rights to talk about faith in classwork. But they also would create a path to allow students to pray at school events and during morning announcements.
