NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) – The state House has passed a bill to make the Bible the official state book of Tennessee, despite opposition from Republican leaders and an attorney general’s opinion that the measure would violate the state and federal constitutions.
The chamber voted 55-38 on Wednesday to approve the measure sponsored by Republican Rep. Jerry Sexton, a former pastor from Bean Station.
Sexton argued that his proposal reflects the Bible’s historical, cultural and economic impact in Tennessee.
But several opponents raised concerns about putting the Bible on par with other more innocuous state symbols like the official salamander, tree and beverage.
The measure would need to be approved by the Senate before heading to the desk of Republican Gov. Bill Haslam, who opposes it.