HB15 Alabama 2014 Session

Summary

Primary Sponsor

April WeaverSenator

Republican

Session

Regular Session 2014

Title

Schools, allow school district to educate students about traditional winter celebrations and offer traditional greetings

Summary

The bill would let Alabama school districts teach about traditional winter celebrations and allow greetings and related displays, with certain display rules.

What This Bill Does

If passed, the bill would authorize school districts to educate students about the history of traditional winter celebrations and to permit students and staff to offer traditional greetings such as 'Merry Christmas,' 'Happy Hanukkah,' or 'Happy holidays.' It would also allow displays of winter celebration imagery on school property only if the display includes more than one religion or one religion plus a secular symbol, and it would prohibit messages that urge a belief in a particular religion. The act would take effect on the first day of the third month after its passage and governor approval.

Who It Affects

• Students and district staff, who would be allowed to learn about traditional winter celebrations and to give or receive traditional greetings in school settings.
• School districts, which would be permitted to provide education about these celebrations and to display related imagery under the specified conditions.

Key Provisions

• School districts may educate students about the history of traditional winter celebrations and allow greetings by students and staff (examples include Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy holidays).
• Displays on school property of scenes or symbols (e.g., menorah, nativity scene, Christmas tree) are allowed only if the display includes more than one religion or one religion plus at least one secular scene or symbol.
• Displays may not contain a message that encourages adherence to a particular religious belief.
• The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and governor approval.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.

Subjects

Opinion/Research