After getting through committee, the bill promoting the civics literacy program came to halt on the chamber floor.

 

House members defeated House Bill 1051, which establishes the South Dakota state seal of civics literacy program, on a 32-38 vote.

 

HB 1051 called for the creation of a program school districts could have participated commemorating students who attained a high level of proficiency in civics education by demonstrating competency in multiple areas. Students achieving that suggested level would have received a sticker of the state seal on their high school diploma.

 

The bill’s prime sponsor, Rep. Fred Deutsch, said the program “incentivizes students” to exceed in civics.

 

Rep. Jean Hunhoff said that despite the program being “voluntary” she saw it as a “mandate” and wanted the state to “allow the schools to (decide) what to put in” such a program.

 

ASBSD was monitoring the bill.

 

For updates on legislation throughout session, check the ASBSD Blog, Twitter feed, Facebook page and Bill Tracker.