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TO AMEND THE CODE OF LAWS OF SOUTH CAROLINA, 1976, BY ADDING SECTION 59-1-325 TO AUTHORIZE THE STATE BOARD OF EDUCATION TO MAKE RULES AND REGULATIONS REQUIRING THE DISPLAY OF THE OFFICIAL MOTTOS OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND SOUTH CAROLINA.
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:
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of the State of South Carolina:
SECTION 1. Article 5, Chapter 1, Title 59 of the 1976 Code is amended by adding:
"Section 59-1-325. The State Board of Education shall make rules and regulations for the display of 'In God We Trust,' the official motto of the United States, and 'Dum Spiro Spero' and 'Animis Opibusque Parati,' the official mottos of South Carolina. The person at the head of a public school shall ensure that the mottos are displayed in the manner adopted by the State Board of Education."
SECTION 2. This act takes effect upon approval by the Governor.
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