Lawmakers Discuss Whether 'In God We Trust' Should Be Posted In Pa. Schools
By Tony Romeo
HARRISBURG, Pa. (CBS) - Discussion in the state House over whether schools should post the national motto – "In God We Trust" -- turned into a debate about funding for Philadelphia schools yesterday afternoon.
It happened when Montgomery County House Democrat Steve McCarter offered an amendment that would call for a local referendum before "In God We Trust" is posted in schools.
McCarter referenced a writer who suggested that divine intervention is needed to help Philadelphia's schools.
"That is truly the business we should be talking about on this House floor today – funding our public schools, not subliminal messaging."
But Allegheny County Republican John Maher said those who want to twist the debate to talk about costs should just look at their money.
"Look at the reverse on any currency of the United States you might be carrying. It will have our national motto."
McCarter's amendment was defeated but another amendment was approved that would make posting of "In God We Trust" in schools optional instead of mandatory. A final House vote on the bill can't happen until June.
