S.C. Code § 59-1-325

Current through 2024 Act No. 209.

Section 59-1-325 - Patriotic depictions in schools

(A) No later than January 1, 2023, every public school, to include state agency schools and charter schools, shall display the following depictions in a prominent place:

(1) the official motto of the United States, "In God We Trust";

(2) the official mottos of South Carolina, "Dum spiro spero" and "Animis opibusque parati", and their respective translations;

(3) an accurate representation of the United States flag; and

(4) an accurate representation of the South Carolina state flag.

The State Board of Education shall promulgate regulations specifying how the depictions shall be displayed.

(B) The head of each public school shall ensure that the depictions required in subsection (A) are displayed in the manner adopted by the State Board of Education and as directed by the State Superintendent of Education. Nothing in this section shall prohibit the solicitation or acceptance of funds donated to achieve its purpose.

(C) The provisions of this section also apply to any private school that receives any public funding.

S.C. Code § 59-1-325

Added by 2022 S.C. Acts, Act No. 177 (SB 969),s 1, eff. 7/1/2023.

2022 Act No. 177, preamble and Section 4, provide as follows:

"Whereas, July 30, 2016, marked the 60th anniversary of 'In God We Trust' as the official motto of the United States; and

"Whereas, in 2011, by resolution of the United States House of Representatives, with the concurrence of the United States Senate, the United States Congress reaffirmed 'In God We Trust' as the official motto of the United States and supported and encouraged the public display of the national motto in all public buildings, public schools, and other governmental institutions; and

"Whereas, 'In God We Trust' appears over the south entrance to the United States Senate Chamber and above the Speaker's rostrum in the Chamber of the United States House of Representatives; and

"Whereas, the motto has been an integral part of the society of the United States since its founding and first appeared on U.S. coins in 1864; and

"Whereas, 'Dum spiro spero', which translates to 'While I breathe, I hope' is perhaps the most well known of South Carolina's two mottos and appears on the State Seal that was adopted in 1776; and

"Whereas, reflecting the character and beliefs of the citizens of South Carolina, 'Dum spiro spero' illustrates the inherent spirit of South Carolinians to overcome obstacles and face each day with the courage and determination to do what is just in the face of adversity; and

"Whereas, 'Animis opibusque parati', which translates to 'Prepared in Mind and Resources', is the other South Carolina state motto. It is especially fitting that this motto appear in state schools, as it reflects the central aim of South Carolina's education system. Now, therefore, [Text of Act.]"

"SECTION 4. The provisions of this act take effect July 1, 2023."