Some will call it forced patriotism. Indeed, that’s what former Gov. Jesse Ventura called a bill that would require school children to say the Pledge of Allegiance at least once a week. But it’s really more like suggested patriotism, and a pretty harmless form of it.

The bill, passed on the last day of the regular legislative session Monday, puts the pledge requirement in place but gives local school districts the final say. Those who disagree with the rule can opt out. It’s as simple as that.

In a time when many Americans have responded to troubled times with renewed patriotism, others have reacted to that trend with growing suspicion, fearing that it will create pressure for all to behave a certain way or be called unpatriotic.

But the pledge requirement in Minnesota shouldn’t be a problem. Many schools are already saying the pledge. And it can be argued that the education system has a duty to familiarize children with patriotism, citizenship and the important symbols that represent our country. That’s all the pledge requirement does.