NASHVILLE (AP) — A proposal that would prevent students from being discriminated against for expressing their religious beliefs has passed the Senate.

The measure sponsored by Republican Sen. Kerry Roberts of Springfield was approved 29-0 on Wednesday. The companion bill is awaiting a vote on the House floor.

Roberts says the proposal requires school districts to treat a student's religious expression the same as they would a secular viewpoint. Students would also have access to school facilities to organize student prayer groups or other religious gatherings.

Democratic Sen. Beverly Marrero of Memphis, who abstained from voting, questioned whether the bill is "trying to make schools similar to Sunday schools."