CSC - Nevers: Science bill not about religion

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While the focus of most attention at the state capitol this week was on the issue of legislative pay raises, another issue prompted concerns among church and state separatists.

But state Sen. Ben Nevers said he authored the bill to ensure that Louisiana students get the most up-to-date science information possible.

"This is strictly about teaching science in the classroom," he said. "It has nothing to do with religion. Most textbooks are seven years old or older. Science can be very changeable in some areas. It is important to bring current science into the classroom."

The legislation is called the Louisiana Science Education Act. As worded, the bill allows science teachers to supplement textbooks with other materials "to help students understand, analyze, critique and review scientific theories in an objective manner."

The stated intention is to "create and foster an environment within public elementary and secondary schools that promotes critical thinking skills, logical analysis and open and objective discussion of scientific theories being studied including, but not limited to, evolution, the origins of life, global warming and human cloning."

"It gives a clear process on how to deal with getting supplemental information into the classroom," said Nevers.

He added that the supplemental materials must be approved by the local school board before being used, and that the state Board of Elementary and Secondary Education has the right to prohibit any materials it feels are not appropriate.

While supporters have said the bill would promote critical thinking, strengthen scientific education and help clarify for teachers what outside materials they may use, opponents claim the bill is a veiled attempt to bring religion back into classrooms.

Representatives of the American Civil Liberties Union of Louisiana and Americans United for separation of church and state said the bill may prompt a lawsuit. Nevers said he believes a lawsuit would be "totally off base," and that he does not think one will be filed.

The bill specifically addresses the issue of religion, said Nevers. It reads that the measure "shall not be construed to promote any religious doctrine, promote discrimination for or against any particular set of religious beliefs, or promote discrimination for or against religion or nonreligion."

"I have been criticized, but I had no other meaning than what the bill says," he said. "I think this is certainly needed in Louisiana, and I think it will be a model across the nation."

The Senate approved a final, slightly amended version of the bill 36-0 Monday. The House passed it last week 94-3. Gov. Bobby Jindal is expected to sign.