WKMS: “Debate over a bill to deny certain immigrant children the right to an education was disrupted Monday as two Lutheran pastors knelt in front of a House committee room and recited the Lord’s Prayer. Others in the audience soon joined from their seats.
The bill (HB793/SB836) by Sen. Bo Watson of Hixson and House Majority Leader William Lamberth of Portland — both Republicans — would give public school districts the option of verifying student immigration status, charging tuition of students who cannot prove they are legal residents or barring enrollment entirely.
Legislative hearings about the bill have often drawn large audiences, including clergy who have previously interrupted debate to recite the Pledge of Allegiance and sung “Jesus Loves the Little Children.”
On Monday, as during previous disruptions, Republicans immediately called for a vote as the Christian prayer was recited, then exited the room. The measure passed 8-7.”