Texas Enacts Law Mandating Ten Commandments in Every Classroom

Texas House Approves Law for Ten Commandments in Classrooms

The Texas House has passed the final version of a law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in all public school classrooms. This law, known as SB-10 and sponsored by Senator Phil King, requires that the state, rather than individual school districts, handle any legal challenges that arise.

The legislation stipulates that classrooms must visibly present a poster—at least 16 by 20 inches—featuring specific versions of the Ten Commandments, excluding any additional legislative language.

“It’s our duty to uphold God’s law, and if we embrace it, I think it will lead to a better environment for everyone,” expressed one supporter.

Supporters also argue that placing the Ten Commandments alongside the national motto in schools serves to remind students of the core values underpinning American and Texas law. They assert that this aligns with what the U.S. Supreme Court has indicated regarding prayers in schools. Matt Krause from the First Liberty Institute shared his appreciation for the bill and anticipation for Governor Abbott’s approval.

Conversely, groups like the ACLU and ACLU Texas are challenging this initiative, insisting that it breaches the First Amendment’s stipulation about the separation of church and state.

Proponents believe SB-10 reflects favorable court rulings, such as those in Kennedy v. Bremerton School District, which they argue set a precedent for religious expression in public schools.

In a statement, Senator King noted that the Ten Commandments have been displayed in public spaces across the United States for 200 years, and with recent changes in the legal landscape, he feels it’s time for Texas to affirm this tradition.

According to ACLU Staff Attorney Chloe Kempf, previous rulings, such as Stone v. Graham, highlight the ongoing relevance of such concerns, arguing the Supreme Court has emphasized that there are special constitutional considerations when it comes to religious messages in educational settings.

Kempf mentioned that the Kennedy case does not correspond with legislation that enforces religious text displays in schools.

Recently, various laws have emerged, seemingly reflecting efforts to reintroduce religious observance within Texas public education. Bills like SB 11 and SB 965 aim to safeguard the freedom to pray in schools and indicate support for religious expression by school staff.