The bill is currently in a Senate committee, but lawmakers from both sides of the isle showed their support for the legislation at a press conference Thursday.

They are 31 words of loyalty and devotion to one's country and God. They have sparked controversy and debate when used in the classroom, but the Pledge of Allegiance could soon be required in a North Carolina public school near you. "This is something in the will of God, I think this is something that really has to be done."

Apex sophomore, Julian Quesada is on a mission, pushing lawmakers to pass legislation that would require students to recite the pledge. "I think it will instill in their minds a sense of national self preservation which I think might be lacking in this country as a whole in the youth of America."

Quesada has no shortage of patriotism. He is a first generation American taught to honor his country from his Costa Rican father and Argentinean mother, Adriana Quesada. "We've always instilled in him, both our boys, you don't take things for granted. This is a privilege to live here."

If the law passes, it would require students in North Carolina from elementary up through high school to recite the Pledge of Allegiance on a daily basis but if the pledge goes against your religious beliefs, the law is structured that those students would have a choice.

Senator Neil Hunt says choice is important. "If anybody does not want to say the pledge they don't have to, if anybody does not want to stand up they don't have to its optional."

The bill is expected to pass the Senate in the coming weeks, and supporters like Quesada are hoping to celebrate it passing the House by Independence Day.

If the Pledge of Allegiance Bill does pass the General Assembly, it would go into effect in the school systems in the 2005-2006 school year.