INDIANAPOLIS (AP): An Indiana Senate panel has advanced a bill that would legally protect schools and teachers who want to celebrate Christmas in the classroom.
 
The Senate Education Committee unanimously approved the bill Wednesday that would allow schools to have Nativity scenes or other Yuletide decorations, as long as another religious or secular holiday is recognized.
 
It would also permit history lessons about winter holidays and traditional holiday greetings, including “Merry Christmas” and “Happy Hanukkah.”
 
This is the second consecutive year lawmakers have introduced this legislation. Last year it unanimously passed the Senate, but stalled in the House.
 
Bill sponsor Republican Senator James Smith of Charlestown wants to take it further this year, allowing religious displays on municipal properties.
 
The bill now goes to the full Senate for consideration.