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Alternative theories to evolution may soon be taught in your child’s classroom. Just two months after the Board of Education voted to incorporate the Theory of Evolution in state science curriculum, the Florida Senate says, what about alternative theories. As Whitney Ray tells us, opponents fear the bill will lead to religion in the classroom.

This fall Science teachers in Florida will be able to use the word “Evolution” for the first time when teaching the origin of man. Whether or not teachers will be able to present holes in Darwin’s Theory without being reprimanded is still being decided. The Senate passed a bill Wednesday to protect teachers who want to present evidence against evolution to their students. Bill sponsor Ronda Storms says the legislation is about free speech.

“This is a freedom of speech issue and I dare say a legitimate good scientist would not be afraid of the general criticism,” said Storms.

Senator Steve Geller says if the bill is signed into law, Florida would become the laughing stock of the nation.

“I submit to you that in 2008 it is embarrassing for us to be debating evolution,” said Geller.

Opponents say the bill would allow religion to be taught in the classroom.

“The Florida Legislature has said we want to teach creationism. We want to be able to teach that the earth was carried on the back of a turtle,” said Geller

The legislation must still clear the state House and the Governor’s Desk. Governor Charlie Crist avoided questions about the bill. He told reporters he would wait to see if the legislation made it through the chambers before he weighed in on the topic.