Representatives guided a bill requiring only public and private school students pass a citizenship test to graduate across the Capitol hall.

 

On a 38-31 vote, House members passed House Bill 1066, which requires public and private school students to pass a citizenship test before graduating from high school.

 

Rep. Caleb Finck previously moved an amendment that would include students receiving homeschool instruction to be included in the graduation testing requirement, which they were in the initial version of the bill, but saw it fall on a vote of 19-50.

 

“The state does not run homeschooling. Homeschool parents don’t seek government intervention,” Rep. Fred Deutsch said while speaking in favor of the bill.

 

“Recognize the difference and the beauty of homeschooling, as well as the commitment of homeschool parents.”

 

The current version of the bill would require only public and private school students to answer 7 of 10 questions, as annually selected by the Secretary of Education, correctly from the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services exam.

 

“A ten-question examination quiz is not necessary,” Rep. Linda Duba said. “They’ve demonstrated their ability to already understand government.

 

Rep. John Lake viewed the bill as an unnecessary mandate on schools.

 

“We are micromanaging the local school districts,” Rep. Lake said. “Let’s leave it to the people back locally.”

 

ASBSD is opposed to the bill, which now heads to the Senate for review. 

 

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