Texas Governor Greg Abbott has signed legislation requiring all public school classrooms to display the Ten Commandments.
The new law, passed during the Republican-dominated legislative session, has drawn both support and significant criticism, with opponents citing concerns about its constitutionality and potential violation of the separation of church and state.
This initiative places Texas at the forefront of efforts by conservative states to integrate religious elements into public education. Proponents argue that the Ten Commandments serve as a foundational component of America’s judicial and educational systems, meriting a place in schools.
Republican State Representative Candy Noble, a co-sponsor of the bill, defended the legislation, stating its aim is to emphasize the commandments’ historical and educational significance.
The law mandates public schools to display a 16-by-20-inch poster or framed copy of a specific English version of the commandments in every classroom. Critics, however, highlight that interpretations of the commandments can vary widely across different faiths and denominations, raising questions about inclusivity and respect for religious diversity.
The Texas law is not without precedent or controversy. Similar laws in other states have faced significant legal setbacks. In Louisiana, a comparable mandate was deemed unconstitutional by federal courts, including the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. Arkansas also faces ongoing legal challenges over its equivalent legislation.
Governor Abbott has a history of defending public displays of the Ten Commandments. In 2005, during his tenure as Texas Attorney General, he successfully argued before the Supreme Court to keep a Ten Commandments monument on the grounds of the Texas Capitol. This track record suggests that Texas may vigorously defend the new law against any legal challenges.
Despite the support from conservative lawmakers, the law has faced sharp criticism from various faith groups. A coalition of Christian and Jewish leaders expressed concern that the mandate infringes on the religious freedoms of Texas’ diverse student body, which includes many who may not identify with the Ten Commandments.
A signed letter from these faith leaders emphasized the potential alienation of non-Christian students and questioned the law’s educational intent. Texas, home to nearly 6 million public school students, risks creating a divisive environment in its 9,100 schools.
Adding to the debate, Abbott also signed legislation permitting a daily voluntary period for prayer or religious text reading in schools, further fueling discussions about the role of religion in public education.
