A United States appeals court has ruled that the state of Texas can require public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms, marking a significant legal victory for conservative groups advocating for religious presence in education.
The decision, delivered by the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans, upheld Texas Senate Bill 10, which mandates that the Biblical text be posted in every public school classroom. The law, passed in June 2025, had faced strong opposition from families of diverse religious backgrounds and civil rights organizations.
In its ruling, the court stated that the requirement does not impose on the religious freedoms of students or parents. It further held that the law does not violate the Elishment Clause of the United States Constitution, which prohibits government endorsement of religion.
The case had been challenged by families, school authorities, and the American Civil Liberties Union, who argued that religious instruction should remain a private matter handled by families and faith institutions rather than public schools. The ACLU expressed disappointment with the ruling, stating that it undermines long standing principles of separation of church and state.
The appeals court decision overturns an earlier injunction by a lower court judge who had blocked the law, arguing that it unfairly favored Christianity over other religions.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton praised the ruling, emphasizing the historical and cultural significance of the Ten Commandments in American society and education.
Legal experts suggest the case may ultimately be decided by the US Supreme Court, as advocacy groups including the ACLU prepare to challenge the ruling at the highest level.
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