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Evolution Debate in Alabama (2-11-05)

   

Senate Bill 336, the Academic Freedom Act, did not make its way to the floor for a vote before the final day of the Alabama State legislative session on May 17th. As such, the bill is no longer; however, many people think this will continue to be an issue in Alabama either during a special session of the legislature (if one is called) or during next year's session. (5/24/04)

On April 8th, the Alabama Senate passed SB 336, the "Academic Freedom Act", which provides protection for both teachers and students who want to freely discuss creationism, as long as the discussion is raised in the context of approved curricula material. The students must also show "acceptable understanding" of the course materials. Meaning, as long as evolution is in the curriculum, then alternate viewpoints (whether based on science or not) may legally be discussed. Representative Jim Carns introduced HB 391 in the Alabama House of Representatives on February 12th. HB 391 has passed through the Education Committee and is now awaiting a full House vote which has not yet been scheduled. (4/19/04)

On February 17th Alabama State Senator Wendell Mitchell, introduced a bill (SB 336) into the State Senate that would allow all theories on creation to be taught in Alabama public schools. According to the Montgomery Advisor, Mitchell remarked, "This bill will level the playing field because it allows a teacher to bring forward the biblical creation story of humankind." The bill provides protection for both teachers and students who want to freely discuss creationism, as long as the discussion is raised in the context of approved curricula material and that the students show "acceptable understanding" of the course materials. The bill is currently under consideration by the Education Committee. (2/25/04)

The Academic Freedom Act was reintroduced as House Bill 352 and Senate Bill 240. The two identical bills retain the language of its predecessors, to protect the right of teachers "to present scientific critiques of prevailing scientific theories" and the right of students to "hold positions regarding scientific views," in the context of subjects concerning "biological and chemical origins." SB 240 was referred to the Senate Committee on Constitution, Campaign Financial, Ethics, and Elections, while HB 352 was referred to the House Committee on Education. (2/11/05)

Sources: Montgomery Advisor, National Center for Science Education

Contributed by Emily M. Lehr, AGI Government Affairs Program; 2004 AGI/AAPG Spring Semester Intern Gayle Levy; Bridget Martin, 2004 AGI/AIPG Summer Intern; and Katie Ackerly, 2005 AGI/AAPG Spring Intern.

Please send any comments or requests for information to AGI Government Affairs Program.

Last updated on February 11, 2005

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