Rabb introduces legislation to uphold religious neutrality in schools
Rep. Christopher M. Rabb September 16, 2026 | 2:47 PM
HARRISBURG, Sept. 16 – Today, state Rep. Chris Rabb introduced H.B. 2776, also known as the Promoting Liberty & Upholding Rights of All Learners (PLURAL) Act.
The bill would establish clear standards to uphold religious neutrality in public schools and define appropriate boundaries for religious activity in educational settings, making clear that instruction remains academically free from endorsement or denigration of any belief system.
The legislation would also reinforce that violations of protections constitute unlawful discrimination under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act and would provide a pathway for enforcement and accountability.
“With students across Pennsylvania navigating increasingly complex social and cultural environments, we need to do our part to keep public schools as spaces of inclusivity and respect,” said Rabb, D-Phila. “Moreover, learning environments should be grounded in constitutional protections, protecting the rights of students regardless of their faith, beliefs, or nonbelief. This bill will establish clear guidance for the commonwealth’s education system reflecting our shared commitment to equity.”
Co-sponsor Rep. Tarah Probst, D-Monroe/Pike, said that she strongly supports the PLURAL Act “because our public schools should be welcoming and inclusive spaces for every student and family.”
“When taxpayer dollars fund our schools, those dollars come from Pennsylvanians of many faiths, cultures, traditions and beliefs – as well as those who practice no religion,” Probst said. “Our public institutions should remain religiously neutral, ensuring that no student’s tax dollars are used to promote or impose a particular religious belief. This principle is rooted in Pennsylvania’s constitution, which, through Article I, Section 3, protects freedom of conscience and prohibits government from compelling religious support or giving preference to any religious establishment.”
For more information on H.B. 2776, those interested can visit https://www.palegis.us/legislation/bills/2025/hb2776.