Missourians to vote on controversial amendment

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Web Editor - Ryan Burkett

Story Created: Tue Aug 7, 2012 5:42 AM

Story Updated: Tue Aug 7, 2012 5:43 AM

Many Missourians will head to the poll today on a proposed amendment to the state constitution.

Amendment 2 deals with a controversial issue: prayer.

According to the Missouri Secretary of State's website, the bill will read:

"Shall the missouri constitution be amended to ensure:

that the right of Missouri citizens to express their religious beliefs shall not be infringed;

that school children have the right to pray and acknowledge God voluntarily in their schools; and

that all public schools shall display the bill of rights of the United States Constitution."

Many supporters say the so-called "right to pray" ballot measure will protect the state's Christians, about 80 percent of the population, who feel they are under seige in the public square.

Meanwhile opponents says the protections are already guaranteed by the Bill of Rights. One representative even called it "a jobs bill for lawyers," implying passing will open the state to lawsuits.

Based on a poll last week, it will pass easily. According to the Huffington Post, 82 percent say they support Amendment 2.