Texas Governor Greg Abbott is considering new legislation that, if signed into law, would require a copy of the Ten Commandments to be displayed in every public school classroom across the state.
What the Law Requires
The proposed law mandates that Texas public schools display a 16-by-20-inch framed or durable poster of the Ten Commandments in each classroom. Schools lacking enough copies must accept donated posters that meet the requirements, ensuring every classroom is covered.
Similar Laws and Expected Challenges
Texas is not the first state to pass such legislation. Louisiana approved a similar law about a year ago. Like Louisiana, Texas lawmakers anticipate legal challenges to the bill, as reported by the Dallas Morning News.
Supporters Cite Recent Supreme Court Ruling
Supporters of the legislation reference a 2022 U.S. Supreme Court decision that upheld a public school football coach’s right to lead prayers after games, ruling it protected under the First Amendment. This case introduced a “historical” test to evaluate if government actions violate the constitutional ban on establishing religion.
Proponents argue that this ruling clears the way for displaying the Ten Commandments in classrooms.
Opposition from Texas Democrats
Texas Democrats in the House have opposed the bill, warning that it represents the state endorsing one religion over others, which they say contradicts the principle of religious freedom.
In contrast, Republicans defend the legislation, asserting that the Ten Commandments are foundational to American law, values, and education.