Texas Defends Law Mandating Ten Commandments in Classrooms
In a pivotal legal battle over the display of religious texts in schools, Texas is defending a law mandating the Ten Commandments’ presence in public classrooms. On Tuesday, a Louisiana federal courtroom will host arguments against similar laws in Texas and Louisiana, as questions about church and state separation come to the forefront.
Significance of the Hearing
This unique hearing features all 17 judges of the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans. The abundance of judges is notable for such cases, as the court generally does not convene en banc frequently. Key figures include Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, who advocates for the law’s constitutionality, arguing it reflects America’s religious heritage.
Background of the Laws
- Texas’s law, which applies to public schools, mandates the posting of the Ten Commandments.
- Louisiana’s law became the first of its kind in the nation, enacted in 2024.
Both laws specifically require the Protestant version of the Ten Commandments, which varies from the interpretations used by Catholics and Jews. This raises concerns among parents and civil liberties advocates about the potentially coercive environment for students of diverse faiths and non-religious backgrounds.
Legal Challenges and Implications
- The Texas lawsuit, known as Rabbi Nathan v. Alamo Heights Independent School District, was initiated by parents and religious leaders in Dallas.
- The legal challenge in Louisiana was led by U.S. District Judge John deGravelles, who declared the law “facially unconstitutional.”
Experts, including legal scholars, emphasize the longstanding precedent set by a 1980 Supreme Court ruling that prohibits mandating such religious displays in public education settings. As noted by law professor Dane Ciolino, the issues at stake appear straightforward and carry profound implications for the future of education and public policy in both states.
Political Responses
Louisiana’s Attorney General Liz Murrill has expressed her disagreement with the court’s ruling and intends to pursue an appeal. Conversely, Texas state Rep. Candy Noble has voiced strong support for the law, stating its importance in informing students about America’s foundational values.
The outcome of these cases could have significant repercussions, setting precedents for similar legislations nationwide and fueling ongoing discussions surrounding the First Amendment’s establishment clause, which seeks to prevent governmental endorsement of any particular religion.
