Charleston, West Virginia – West Virginia is considering a controversial proposal that would enshrine the Bible as the “accurate, historical record of human history” and the “utmost authority for human moral behavior” within the state’s constitution. This newly introduced resolution seeks to elevate the Bible as a “divinely inspired” text that should hold a place of “prominence and reverence” in public buildings, laws, policies, and schools across West Virginia.
The bill, which has been referred to the House Judiciary Committee, carries significant implications for religious freedom in the state and across the U.S. If passed, it could undermine the constitutional separation of church and state and create challenges for religious minorities and nonbelievers by explicitly recognizing Christianity as the guiding force in public life.
The proposed amendment would also require the Bible’s teachings to be prominently featured in West Virginia’s public spaces and educational systems. By describing the Bible as “divinely inspired” and promoting its teachings as central to moral authority, this legislation may pave the way for further attempts to integrate Christian doctrine into government operations and policies.
While the resolution remains under review by the House Judiciary Committee, it is unclear whether Committee Chair J.B. Akers (R-Kanawha) will place it on the agenda for discussion. The bill has been moved several times on the West Virginia House of Delegates website over the past week, with links returning a 404 error, raising questions about its status.
If the resolution is approved by the legislature, it will be placed on the 2026 ballot for West Virginia voters to decide whether the proposed amendment should be added to the state constitution. The bill, referred to as HB 3020, is formally titled “Recognition of the Holy Bible as Foundational Text” and would legally affirm the Bible as a guiding force in state governance and educational practices.
This legislative push is part of a larger trend of Christian nationalist efforts across the United States, with states like North Dakota also advancing similar bills that seek to enshrine Christian beliefs in public law. Critics argue that these proposals could erode religious freedom and establish a de facto state religion, a violation of the principle of church-state separation.
As this bill progresses, The Wild Hunt will continue to monitor its status and the potential consequences it may have for religious minorities, public education, and the balance between church and state in West Virginia and beyond.
You Might Be Interested In: