A bill that would mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom in the US state of Texas has passed the state House of Representatives and is now one step away from becoming law.
The legislation, which cleared the House with a vote of 82 - 46, must now return to the Senate for final approval before heading to Governor Greg Abbott, who is expected to sign it.
The bill requires all public elementary and secondary schools to prominently display a durable, framed copy of the Ten Commandments measuring at least 16 by 20 inches. An amendment passed with the bill ensures that the state, rather than individual school districts, will defend against any legal challenges.
The law would allow schools to accept donated displays or use their funds, and implementation is set to begin in the 2025 - 2026 school year.
Supporters, including Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, argue the legislation promotes shared moral values and reflects the country’s Judeo-Christian heritage. “By placing the Ten Commandments in our public school classrooms, we ensure our students receive the same foundational moral compass as our state and country’s forefathers,” Patrick said.
However, critics - including religious freedom advocates and some Christian lawmakers - say the bill risks alienating students of other faiths and raises constitutional concerns. Democratic state representative James Talarico, who is Christian, argued: “Forcing our religion down their throats is not love.”
Similar laws in Louisiana and Arkansas have faced legal challenges, and experts predict Texas could see a similar fate. The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 1980 that such displays in classrooms were unconstitutional, though the current court’s more conservative makeup could invite a new ruling.
Meanwhile, the Texas House has also passed another measure that would allow schools to introduce a period of prayer and Bible reading with parental consent. Critics see these efforts as part of a coordinated strategy to insert Christian religious practice into public education.
