An Act to require the display of the state motto in public school classrooms.

Be it enacted by the Legislature of the State of South Dakota:

Section 1. That a NEW SECTION be added:

13-24-23.1. State motto--Display in classroom.

The motto of the State of South Dakota, "Under God the People Rule," must be displayed in a prominent location in each public school classroom. The motto may be on a plaque or on student-created artwork or may be displayed in any other form approved by the building principal. The display must be easily readable and at least twelve inches wide by twelve inches high.

Section 2. That § 13-24-24 be AMENDED.

13-24-24. Display of national and state motto--Litigation--Representation--Expenses.

For any lawsuit brought or any complaint filed against a school district, an employee of a school district, the board of a school district, or a member thereof, as a result of a school district displaying the national motto of the United States in accordance with § 13-24-23 or the motto of this state in accordance with § 13-24-23.1, the attorney general shall provide legal representation, at no cost to the school district, employee, school board, or member of the school board.

In addition to the expenses of representation, the state shall assume financial responsibility for any other related expense incurred by the school district, an employee, the board, or member thereof, including any award for monetary damages, attorney's fees, and costs for which the school district, an employee, the board, or a member thereof would be otherwise responsible.