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Primary Sponsor

Last Action

Ref To Com On Rules and Operations of the Senate2025-03-20

Vote Breakdown

Plain Language Summary

This bill requires North Carolina schools to schedule daily recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance within one hour of the school day's start, display U.S. and North Carolina flags in classrooms, and provide instruction on the flag and Pledge's history. It also requires the State Board of Education and local school governing bodies to begin their meetings with the Pledge. The bill specifies that no one can be compelled to stand, salute, or recite the Pledge.

Arguments in Favor

• •Supporters argue this bill promotes patriotism, shared civic values, and respect for national symbols among students.
• •They contend that daily exposure to the Pledge reinforces common American identity and historical understanding, and that including it at official meetings demonstrates institutional commitment to these principles.
• •Proponents note the bill includes protections allowing students and officials to opt out of participation.

Arguments Against

• •Opponents express concerns that mandating Pledge recitation may pressure students despite opt-out language, particularly younger children who may feel social pressure to conform.
• •Some argue the bill uses school time for activities better left to families and question whether daily recitation without deeper civics education serves educational goals.
• •Critics also note the bill focuses on symbols rather than substantive civic learning and history instruction.