AUSTIN, TX — A federal appeals court has ruled that Texas can require the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public school classrooms, a decision likely to fuel ongoing legal battles over religion in education.
The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals determined that the law does not violate the First Amendment’s establishment or free exercise clauses. The ruling clears a major legal hurdle for a policy backed by conservatives seeking to expand religious presence in public institutions.
Supporters argue the Ten Commandments reflect historical principles foundational to U.S. law, while critics contend the requirement undermines the constitutional separation of church and state. Legal challenges had previously blocked enforcement in some districts, though many schools moved forward with displays through private funding or donations.
The decision follows similar action involving Louisiana, where the same court recently allowed a comparable law to proceed. The Texas measure, which took effect in September, represents one of the most expansive efforts nationwide to mandate religious displays in classrooms.
The ruling is expected to face further challenges and could ultimately be reviewed by the U.S. Supreme Court, setting the stage for a broader national precedent on the role of religion in public education.
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