SRC-JEC S.C.R. 29 78(R) BILL ANALYSIS Senate Research Center S.C.R. 29 78R6909 LK-DBy: Staples State Affairs 4/8/2003 As Filed DIGEST The motto, "In God We Trust," has a longstanding history in the United States dating back to the Civil War when it began appearing on U.S. currency in response to popular demand; having been formally adopted as the national motto by Congress in 1956, it has withstood numerous constitutional challenges. Various courts have found that the display of the national motto fosters patriotism, exemplifies our country's religious heritage, and expresses confidence in the future. The national motto is prominently engraved in the wall above the speaker's dias in the chamber of the United States House of Representatives, appears over the entrance to the chamber of the United States Senate, and is depicted on all United States coins and currency. The U.S. House of Representatives recently passed a unanimous resolution stating that schools across the nation may display "God Bless America!" as a show of support for the nation; the national motto, "In God We Trust," is an additional symbol of our country that has been recognized as promoting a sense of patriotism and pride and that does not have the primary effect of advancing religion. The United States has experienced a recent upsurge in patriotism all across the nation and during these difficult and demanding times, it is fitting and proper to display the national motto as a reminder to the American people of the ideals we historically have held dear as a nation. PURPOSE As proposed, S.C.R. 29 submits the following resolution: The 78th Legislature of the State of Texas hereby expresses its support for the posting and displaying of our nation's motto, "In God We Trust," in state offices and agencies, local government offices, and school districts.