Lawmakers had good intentions when they recently voted to require Minnesota schoolchildren to say the Pledge of Allegiance at least once a week, starting this fall.

However, the bill offers too many instances not to participate in saying the Pledge. That's why we believe this bill will not be truly effective.

Gov. Tim Pawlenty is expected to sign the bill that will apply the requirement to public and charter schools.

Included in the bill is more education for flag etiquette in elementary schools. We think that's a wise choice.

However, the bill says school boards can vote to annually waive the requirement. Also, school districts must adopt policies that would clearly say teachers and students can't be punished for not taking part in saying the pledge.

If that's the case, then what's the use for Pawlenty to sign this bill?

As a result, it appears this bill's purpose is for legislators to show their constituents they truly care about patriotism.

Gee, how thoughtful.

If schoolchildren can learn more about flag etiquette and how to properly respect Old Glory, that's great.

But legislators shouldn't waste their time on a bill that is largely going to be ineffective. We're all for patriotism, but there's a lot more pressing matters that we believe legislators need to tackle.