On Thursday, June 20, Louisiana moved closer to becoming the first state to mandate the display of the Ten Commandments in all public school classrooms. The bill, introduced by GOP state Representative Dodie Horton, passed the Louisiana State Senate and House with significant support and now awaits the signature of Governor Jeff Landry.
The bill specifies that a poster at least 11 inches by 14 inches must be displayed in every public school classroom, prominently featuring the Ten Commandments. Proponents argue that this measure will provide moral guidance to students, emphasizing the historical significance of the commandments as foundational to many laws. Horton stated, “The significance is historical. Our laws are based on the Ten Commandments. In fact, without them, a lot of our laws would not exist.”
Supporters believe the recent changes in the legal landscape, including United States Supreme Court rulings, that have allowed more religious expressions in public spaces, create a new opportunity for such legislation. They cite a ruling that reinstated a high school football coach who was fired for praying on the field as a pivotal moment that supports their cause.
However, the bill has faced strong opposition from civil rights groups and advocates for the separation of church and state. Organizations such as the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) and the Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) argue that the bill violates the First Amendment. Terry Landry of the SPLC remarked, “This bill is unconstitutional. The state may not require public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms.”
Opponents also raise concerns about the practical implications of the bill, questioning how schools will address potentially sensitive topics contained within the Ten Commandments with young students. Landry added, “Do I want a teacher explaining to my child, what is adultery?”
Despite these objections, the bill received final approval from the Louisiana House in a 79-16 vote, with only Democrats opposing. If signed into law, legal challenges are expected, as opponents plan to argue that the requirement constitutes state-sponsored religion, infringing on the religious freedom of students and families.
Governor Landry has not yet indicated whether he will sign the bill, but if he does, Louisiana will set a precedent that could influence similar legislative efforts in other states.
