House delays vote on athletes' religious clothing bill

ATLANTA (AP) The Georgia House has delayed voting on a bill that would prevent state-funded high schools from joining athletic associations that don't allow athletes to wear clothing expressing religious beliefs.

The bill was included on the House's schedule for Tuesday but has been put off to Wednesday.

The proposal is aimed at the Georgia High School Association. Some lawmakers have criticized the association for disqualifying a runner from West Forsyth High School wearing a headband with a Bible verse on it from a recent event.

The organization has said its national rules require student athletes to be in uniform with no other adornments. Opponents of the measure say the association is a private organization following its own rules.

The measure also allows schools to compete across athletic associations.

A Senate version of the bill remains in committee.