An amended House bill that requires school corporations to release students for religious education during the school day passed the Senate this week. However, both chambers of the Indiana General Assembly need to agree on a final version of the bill before it can be sent to the governor.

House Bill 1137 says schools must work with religious education organizations to release approved students for faith-based instruction.

Currently, schools have a choice whether to approve that release for students. The bill would eliminate that option, mandating schools to release students for religious education when it’s requested.

A Senate committee also added language from a different bill that would allow chaplains to fill in as school counselors for students and staff. The provision would require chaplains to only serve in a secular capacity unless a student’s parents say their child may receive spiritual guidance.

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Some lawmakers expressed concerns about the bill, such as how school administrators will choose between chaplain candidates from different spiritual backgrounds.

The bill must receive approval from both the House and Senate to move forward. A

committee composed of members from both chambers will work to resolve concerns

about the bill.

Kirsten is Indiana Public Broadcasting's education reporter. Contact her at kadair@wfyi.org or follow her on Twitter at @kirsten_adair.