SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (AP) - With dozens of people waiting to testify, the Springfield City Council tabled a proposal to post “In God We Trust” inside City Hall.
The council voted Monday night to instead send the issue to the plans and policies committee.
Councilman Justin Burnett proposed posting the motto as a way to recognize the nation’s heritage and not to promote a specific religion. Mayor Bob Stephens had suggested “E Pluribus Unum” as an alternative. That phrase means “Out of one, many.”
Opponents said the posting the phrase in a public government building violates the separation of church and state.
Burnett opposed tabling the issue, saying he wanted to hear audience members’ opinions.
Other council members voted to delay a vote to allow time to consult with legal advisers.
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