Alabama Allows Public School Students 'Released Time' for Religious Instruction

Alabama has enacted legislation allowing public school students to leave campus during the school day for off-site religious instruction, joining a growing number of states embracing 'released time' programs. The law builds on a Supreme Court precedent permitting such arrangements when instruction occurs off school grounds and participation is voluntary. Supporters hail the measure as a win for religious freedom in education while critics worry it could blur the line between church and state.