Federal judge blocks Texas Ten Commandments law in public schools

Federal Judge Blocks Texas Bill Requiring Display of Ten Commandments in Schools

A federal judge has halted a Texas bill that would have mandated public school classrooms to display the Ten Commandments, citing concerns over religious favoritism and lack of historical tradition.

Judge Fred Biery issued a preliminary injunction, stating that the legislation did not have enough evidence of a longstanding tradition of posting the religious text in public schools to justify its implementation. Biery, appointed by President Clinton, also noted that the bill showed favoritism towards Christian denominations, violating the principle of religious neutrality.

Legal Backlash Against Ten Commandments Laws

This ruling is part of a series of legal setbacks for red states attempting to introduce the Ten Commandments into schools. Similar laws in Louisiana and Arkansas have been deemed unconstitutional by federal courts, with judges citing violations of the First Amendment.

In a landmark 1980 case, the Supreme Court ruled against the display of religious texts in public school classrooms, emphasizing the need for a secular purpose. Biery referenced this precedent in his decision to block the Texas bill.

Legislative Intent Under Scrutiny

The judge highlighted statements from Texas lawmakers, including the bill’s sponsor, revealing a predominantly religious motivation behind the legislation. Despite claims of historical significance, the court found that the primary objective was to promote religious teachings in public schools.

Advocates for the bill expressed disappointment over the ruling, vowing to continue their efforts to reinstate the display of the Ten Commandments in Texas schools. However, legal experts suggest that any future legislation must adhere to strict constitutional standards to avoid further challenges.