Yesterday with some debate the House moved to pave the way to resolve an issue that has been simmering for some time … display of the Ten Commandments at court houses and other public buildings.

In recognizing the religious heritage of America, House Bill 941 directs the Secretary of State to prepare documents relative to that heritage, authorizes counties to post such documents for educational purposes and directs the state Attorney General to defend counties which display documents relative to the religious heritage of America.

Specifically addressed are displays of the Mayflower Compact, the covenant agreed to by the first colonists; the King James version of the Ten Commandments and the Declaration of Independence signed by our founding fathers.

Also approved yesterday was legislation expanding
pre-trial intervention and diversion programs.

Passing with only three dissenting votes the measure broadens the types of diversion programs which can be administered by Municipal and Magistrate courts.