A Republican-backed bill in Kentucky would force public schools to allow outside groups to provide religious instruction during class time. House Bill 829, sponsored by Rep. Shane Baker, would change current law from giving school boards the option to approve moral instruction requests to requiring approval if certain conditions are met. The bill targets programs like LifeWise Academy, which teaches the Bible to public school students.

The measure comes after Ohio-based LifeWise Academy submitted requests to multiple Kentucky school boards with mixed results. Under the proposed law, school boards would have to approve moral instruction programs that meet requirements including transportation plans and insurance proof. The bill would also mandate at least one hour of instruction, expanding from the current "up to" one hour limit. Programs could occur on school campuses if boards allow equal access to community members.

Supporters argue the bill streamlines the approval process for religious instruction programs, while opponents warn it could disrupt school days and create division among students. The Kentucky attorney general's office would gain authority to sue school boards that don't comply. The legislation reflects a broader push by religious instruction advocates to expand their presence in public schools across multiple states.