(Pierre, SD) — There’s a new proposed measure that would require prayer in South Dakota public schools. It was recently submitted as a petition to the state Attorney General’s Office for public review. The possible ballot measure is intended for the 2026 general election. If passed, every public school teacher, from kindergarten through 12th grade, would be required to lead students in non-denominational prayer every morning. But both teachers and students would have the option not to participate on religious grounds, according to the Attorney General’s Office. However, any requests to be excused must be turned in to the principal in writing. The measure would require more than 17-thousand-500 valid petition signatures to go on the general election ballot in 2026.