Parental and Church Rights Amendment
Sponsor: Marla Fernandez
Preamble:
Recognizing the fundamental rights of parents and the church to direct the upbringing, education, and care of children, this amendment seeks to protect these rights from undue interference by the state.
Article I: Parental Rights
Parental Authority: Parents have the inherent right to direct the upbringing, education, and health care of their minor children, including the right to impart religious and moral training according to their beliefs.
Educational Choice: Public education is recognized as an option, but parents have the right to opt into or out of public schooling, homeschooling, private schooling, or other educational programs without undue interference or penalty.
Parental Involvement: Parents shall have access to and review all school and medical records pertaining to their children, and shall be promptly notified of any concerns or incidents affecting their child’s health, well-being, or education.
Religious Freedom: Parents have the right to opt out of any educational program or activity that conflicts with their religious or moral beliefs, including but not limited to teachings on sexuality, morality, or social issues.
Church Involvement: Churches and religious institutions shall have the right to offer moral and religious guidance to children, and parents have the right to involve their children in religious activities and education without interference from the state.
Article II: Church Rights
Freedom of Religious Expression: Churches and religious institutions have the right to govern behavior and provide moral and religious guidance to their members and communities, free from government interference.
Religious Education: Churches have the right to establish and operate educational programs and institutions that align with their religious beliefs, including schools and homeschooling programs.
Parental Consent for Religious Activities: No child shall be compelled to participate in religious activities against the wishes of their parents. Churches and religious institutions shall obtain parental consent before involving children in religious activities or education.
Protection of Church Practices: The state shall not infringe upon the religious practices or teachings of churches and religious institutions, provided they do not violate other laws or endanger the welfare of children.
Article III: Implementation
Enforcement: Any individual, organization, or governmental entity that violates the rights outlined in this amendment shall be subject to legal action and liable for damages.
Education and Awareness: The state shall promote awareness of parental and church rights through educational programs and public information campaigns.
Non-discrimination: No person or entity shall discriminate against parents or churches exercising their rights under this amendment.
Article IV: Effective Date
This amendment shall take effect immediately upon ratification.