Public Schools Could See Satanic Temple Chaplains If Oklahoma Bill Passes

A controversial bill that would allow chaplains to council children in public schools is now gaining support from the Satanic Temple.

The Satanic Temple says if the bill allows chaplains into schools, then they will participate.

Earlier this month, legislators shucked Senate Bill 36. The bill was originally meant to allow body camera and drone footage from law enforcement to be made public, but was thrown out and replaced at the last minute.

Now, SB 36 would allow public schools to employ volunteer or full-time chaplains. The Satanic Temple (TST) announced plans to place its ministers in schools, if the bill becomes law.

Ministers of TST say this is a groundbreaking initiative for religious equality.

They also said, “We are committed to offering compassionate guidance to students who come to us so that we can help make positive changes in their lives by listening to their needs and providing support.”

Similar bills about chaplains serving as unlicensed counselors in schools have popped up in other states. In Utah, legislators rejected the bill and in Florida, Governor DeSantis said satanic chaplains would be barred from participating in the program.

News 9 reached out to Ryan Walter’s office for comment, and have not heard back.