A bill for an act relating to elective social studies courses emphasizing religious scripture that school districts may offer and teach.(See HF 845.)

House File 448 (HF 448) is a bill introduced in the Iowa General Assembly that allows school districts to offer elective social studies courses focusing on religious scriptures to students in grades nine through twelve. The bill directs the Iowa State Board of Education to establish course standards for these electives. HF 448 was introduced on February 18, 2025, and was later renumbered as HF 845 on March 7, 2025.

Supporters of HF 448 argue that offering elective courses on religious scriptures provides students with a broader understanding of cultural and historical contexts, enriching their educational experience. They emphasize that these courses are optional and aim to promote academic exploration of religious texts without endorsing any particular faith.

Critics of HF 448 express concerns about the potential for blurring the lines between church and state, fearing that such courses might lead to the promotion of specific religious beliefs in public schools. They also worry about the challenges in ensuring that these classes are taught objectively and without bias, potentially leading to legal challenges regarding the separation of church and state.