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TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A recently introduced bill would require portraits of former Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln to be displayed in classrooms in Florida’s public schools.
The bill, titled the “Patriotic Expression in the Classroom Act,” was introduced Thursday by Republican state Sen. Danny Burgess, who represents parts of Pasco and Hillsborough counties.
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If passed, photos of the first president and the 16th president would be required to be displayed in a “conspicuous place” in every kindergarten through fifth-grade classroom. The portraits will also be displayed in “classrooms primarily used for social studies instruction.”
In a post on X, Burgess explained why he and Congressman John Snyder introduced the twin bill ahead of America’s 250th anniversary.
“For many years, portraits of Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln have been proudly displayed in Florida schools,” Burgess said. “However, over time, as classroom design and curriculum evolved, these historical figures were gradually removed from the classroom.”
Burgess said she found inspiration during her family’s annual trips across the country.
“I was in awe as I stood in this historic classroom with portraits of Presidents Washington and Lincoln still hanging on the walls,” Burgess said. “I couldn’t help but ask myself, ‘Why did we stop having these two historical figures in Florida classrooms?'”
If approved by Congress, the bill is expected to come into effect on July 1, 2026.
“By restoring the portraits, we are giving students the opportunity to reflect on the vision, courage and character that shaped our country, and to be inspired by two great leaders,” Burgess said.
