ATLANTA - Changes could be on the horizon for Georgia high school athletics.
The Georgia House of Representatives approved a bill on Thursday that would prevent public high schools from joining athletic associations that don't allow athletes to wear clothing expressing religious beliefs.
The proposal is aimed at the Georgia High School Association. Some lawmakers have criticized the association for disqualifying a runner wearing a headband with a Bible verse on it from a recent event.
The organization has said its national rules require student athletes to be in uniform with no other adornments. Opponents of the measure say the association is a private organization following its own rules.
The measure also allows schools to compete across athletic associations.
The bill will now go to Gov. Nathan Deal for consideration.