For the first time in decades, Alabama public schools will be allowed to offer students yoga classes.
Gov. Kay Ivey signed House Bill 246, which “authorize[s] local boards of education to offer yoga to students in grades K-12,” into law on Friday, ending a 27-year ban on school personnel using “any techniques that involve the induction of hypnotic states, guided imagery, meditation or yoga.”
Christian conservatives in the state had objected to the practice, arguing it would introduce Hinduism into classrooms. The new law addresses the importance of yoga in the religion, bans students from saying, “Namaste,” and requires parents to sign a written statement acknowledging the religious connection.
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“I am informed that my child (name of child) will participate in yoga instruction at the school named above. I understand that yoga is part of the Hinduism religion. I give my child permission to participate in yoga instruction in school,” the permission slips will say, according to the legislation.
“Studies have shown that yoga helps children cope with daily stressors as well help improve behavior, concentration, mobility, flexibility, and strength,” state Rep. Jeremy Gray, who introduced the bill, said of the proposal in March. “Yoga has become more prevalent than ever as we continue to move through this pandemic. COVID-19 is as much a mentally (sic) battle as it is a physical battle.”
Gray, who reportedly opposed the permission slip provision but conceded to make the session deadline of the state Congress, dismissed accusations that practicing yoga promoted Hinduism.
“I’ve taught classes for five years, and I can tell you I still go to a Baptist church every Sunday,” he said.
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The law goes into effect on Aug. 1, just before the start of the 2021-2022 academic year.
Representatives for Ivey did not immediately respond to the Washington Examiner’s request for comment.
