Texas Might Make Every Classroom Show the Ten Commandments — Here’s What You Need to Know
Starting this September, public school classrooms across Texas could be required to display the Ten Commandments on their walls. This isn’t just a small change — it’s part of a bigger movement in Texas and around the country aiming to bring more religion into public schools. The bill, known as Senate Bill 10, recently passed a major hurdle in the Texas Legislature, moving forward despite serious legal questions and opposition.
The Legislative Push and What’s at Stake
Senate Bill 10 passed the Texas House on a second reading vote of 88 to 49. What made this vote even more ironic? It happened on the Jewish Sabbath — a day the Ten Commandments specifically forbid work. Rep. James Talarico, a Democrat and one of the bill’s critics, pointed this out to highlight what he called "legislative hypocrisy." Despite heavy debate and last-minute attempts by Democrats to soften the bill — like allowing school districts to vote on the policy or including ethical codes from other religions — the bill pushed through.
If the final House vote happens as soon as Sunday and the bill passes, it will head to Gov. Greg Abbott’s desk, where he’s expected to sign it into law. The Texas Senate already gave it the green light back in March with a 20-11 vote.
What Does the Bill Actually Say?
Sponsored by Republican Sen. Phil King from Weatherford, the bill requires every public school classroom to display a poster of the Ten Commandments. This poster must be at least 16 by 20 inches in size and can only include the exact text specified by the bill — no extras, no additional posters.
Here’s a key quote from Rep. Candy Noble, the House Republican championing the bill:
"It is incumbent on all of us to follow God’s law and I think we would all be better off if we did."
Supporters argue the Ten Commandments, and Christian teachings broadly, are fundamental to U.S. history and morality. This view has gained traction in recent years as part of a national movement challenging the traditional understanding of church-state separation.
The Bigger Picture: Religion’s Growing Role in Texas Schools
This push to display the Ten Commandments isn’t happening in isolation. Over the past few years, Texas has seen a wave of legislation and policy changes aimed at increasing religious presence in public education:
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In 2021, Texas passed a law requiring schools to display "In God We Trust" signs if privately donated.
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In 2024, the State Board of Education approved teaching materials that incorporate Biblical references.
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This legislative session, lawmakers introduced bills allowing prayer or religious study periods in schools.
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Another bill would require teachers to use "Anno Domini" (AD) and "Before Christ" (BC) when teaching dates, terms with clear Christian origins.
Supporters say these moves help combat what they see as a moral decline over generations — believing that highlighting religious values will strengthen society.
But There’s Big Opposition
Critics aren’t holding back. Opponents from civil rights and free speech groups say the bill sends a clear message: If you’re not Christian or don’t practice religion, you don’t belong. They argue the Ten Commandments have no place in math or science classes, and their presence could lead to awkward or inappropriate questions — for example, about adultery.
Teachers unions oppose the bill too, saying it violates the constitutional principle separating church and state. Clay Robison, a union spokesperson, summed it up bluntly:
"Public schools are not supposed to be Sunday school."
The Legal Landscape: Court Rulings and What They Mean
This bill faces serious constitutional questions. Just last June, a federal court struck down a similar Louisiana law requiring Ten Commandments posters in public classrooms. Louisiana is appealing, but this ruling signals the legal risks for Texas.
Robert Tuttle, a religion and law professor at George Washington University, points out the difference between voluntary prayer and state-mandated religious displays. The 2019 Supreme Court decision in Kennedy v. Bremerton School District allowed a football coach to lead prayers after games, but that’s very different from forcing classrooms to display religious text every day.
Tuttle said:
"The constant presence of a sacred text in the room with them is effectively telling them, 'Hey, these are things you should read and obey.' That's not the state's job — to do religious instruction."
Even though the Supreme Court has leaned more conservative recently, its decision to uphold a ban on religious charter schools in Oklahoma shows the Court isn’t ready to completely discard church-state separation.
Voices from the Floor: Diverse Perspectives
Democratic Rep. James Talarico, who is studying to become a minister himself, gave an impassioned floor speech:
"My faith means more to me than anything, but I don't believe the government should be forcing religion onto any American citizen, especially our children. I'm a Christian who firmly believes in the separation of church and state."
His point? You can be deeply religious yet still support keeping public schools secular.
Why Does This Matter Beyond Texas?
Texas isn’t alone. It’s one of 16 states where lawmakers have pushed similar bills requiring Ten Commandments displays in schools. These laws spark fierce debates about the Constitution, religious freedom, and the role of religion in public life.
Historically, the Supreme Court struck down a Kentucky law like this in 1980, but the makeup of the Court and public attitudes have shifted since then. Supporters point to recent decisions and the current conservative majority as signs that such laws might survive legal challenges now.
What Could Happen Next?
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Final House vote: Expected very soon.
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Governor’s signature: Likely, if the bill passes.
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Legal challenges: Almost certain, possibly delaying or blocking enforcement.
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Impact on schools: Teachers and administrators will have to adapt quickly if it becomes law.
Key Takeaways
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Bill requires every Texas public school classroom to display the Ten Commandments.
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Passed despite federal court rulings striking down similar laws.
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Supporters say it reflects core U.S. values and combats moral decline.
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Opponents warn it threatens religious freedom and could alienate students.
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Teachers unions and civil rights groups strongly oppose it.
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Legal battles are expected if it becomes law.
Why It’s a Hot Topic
This debate hits at the heart of American values: the balance between religious freedom and the secular nature of government institutions. It raises questions about what role, if any, religion should play in public education — especially in a diverse state like Texas.
As the bill moves closer to becoming law, it’s clear the conversation is far from over. Whether you support or oppose it, understanding the stakes and the arguments on both sides is crucial.
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