Texas Lawmakers Push 10 Commandments in Public School

Texas lawmakers are once again debating the role of religion in public schools. A proposed new bills would require the Ten Commandments to be displayed in classrooms and allow time for students to read the Bible or other religious texts with parental consent.

SUPPORTERS OF THE BILL

On one hand, the commandments reinforce their place in America's history and use when carving out the moral foundation.

Sen. Phil King, who authored the bill mandating Ten Commandments displays, says the commandments are a key part of Texas and American history. “If our students don’t know the Ten Commandments, they will never understand the foundation for much of American history and law,” King stated.

Meanwhile, another bill introduced by Sen. Mayes Middleton would permit school districts to set aside time for prayer and scripture reading. Middleton insists, “Our schools are not God-free zones,” and thanked Donald Trump and Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick for making school prayer a priority.

CRITICS OF THE BILL

However, others see the bill as an overreach and unnecessary. Sen. Sarah Eckhardt argues, “Segregation along religious lines is still segregation, and that is the reason for separating church and state.” The ACLU has also raised concerns, stating that public schools should remain welcoming spaces for all students, regardless of faith.

Some also worry that these discussions distract from more pressing education issues, like public school funding.

"This is a divisive bill that distracts from real solutions for Texans," Sen. Sarah Eckhardt said

With debates over school vouchers already underway, critics argue that lawmakers should focus on strengthening public education rather than introducing religious mandates.

"Public schools are not Sunday schools," Samantha Chapman, ACLU of South Dakota advocacy manager, said in a statement. She explains that keeping religion out of public school encourages everyone to feel welcomed, "Today's vote ensures that our public school classrooms will remain spaces where all students, regardless of their faith, feel welcomed,"