Politics & Government

Governor Deal Says Yes to Bibles Back In State Parks

Do you think Bibles should be in cabins and lodge rooms on state properties? Tells us in the comments section.

 

Governor Nathan Deal says the state will return Bibles to guest cabins and lodge rooms at Georgia parks after their recent removal by Georgia Department of Natural Resources managers, MyFoxAtlanta.com reports

The Bibles were removed while a final decision was made on the response to a citizen complaint about Bibles on state property. 

Find out what's happening in Oconeewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

According to a press release from Gov. Deal's office, “Out of an abundance of caution to avoid potential litigation, the commissioner removed the Bibles from rooms – though they were still available on site – after a complaint from a visitor. The attorney general and I agree that the state is on firm legal footing as we move to return the Bibles to the rooms. These Bibles are donated by outside groups, not paid for by the state, and I do not believe that a Bible in a bedside table drawer constitutes a state establishment of religion. In fact, any religious group is free to donate literature.”

MyFoxAtlanta reports Bibles traditionally have been placed in guest rooms at the state's six lodges and in dozens of rental cabins. 

Find out what's happening in Oconeewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Management at Fort Yargo State Park was unavailable Wednesday to respond to questions about whether there were any Bibles at the Winder park's facilities. A clerk said a manager would be out of the office until Friday. 

What do you think about the state's decision to return the Bibles? 


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