UPDATE: State Representative Barb Kniff McCulla is determined to advance her controversial chaplain bill for public and charter schools in Iowa during the upcoming legislative session. The Republican lawmaker from House District 37 insists this initiative is crucial for student support and mental health, despite facing significant criticism.
The bill, which aims to permit schools to employ chaplains, emphasizes that no student will be “required or coerced” to seek help from these religious figures. However, Democratic opponents argue this measure risks blurring the lines between church and state in public education. McCulla, unfazed by such concerns, stated, “There isn’t a separation of church and state,” insisting that chaplains are a necessary resource for children’s emotional support.
The chaplain bill was passed in the House and through Senate subcommittees during the 2025 legislative session but was ultimately sidelined before reaching a vote on the Senate floor. McCulla is hopeful for a successful reintroduction this session, stressing that the program is purely optional for schools. “They can do it now,” she said, reiterating that schools will handle the vetting and employment of chaplains as needed.
The urgency of implementing this bill stems from a growing recognition of student mental health issues. McCulla claims that adding chaplains to the school environment can “bring down the amount of anxiety and issues” that students face, echoing sentiments shared by parents who have praised recent legislative changes regarding cellphone use in schools.
In a parallel effort, McCulla is also drafting a battery stewardship bill aimed at responsible disposal practices for used batteries, responding to alarming incidents of fires caused by improper battery disposal. She noted, “Even the recycling trucks have caught on fire with some of these batteries.” McCulla aims to introduce regulations that ensure safer handling of hazardous materials, showcasing her commitment to protecting Iowa’s environment.
As Iowa lawmakers gear up for the next session, McCulla’s dual focus on mental health support in schools and environmental stewardship reflects a proactive approach to pressing issues facing the state. With significant implications for students and the community, the outcome of these initiatives could reshape the landscape of educational support and environmental responsibility in Iowa.
Stay tuned for more updates as these bills progress through the legislative process!