Ten Commandments Display Law Stands in Texas Schools

Texas Appeals Court Upholds Ten Commandments Display Law

A federal appeals court has ruled that a Texas law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public school classrooms remains valid. The decision came from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit, siding with Senate Bill 10 after families sued, claiming the law pushed religion into schools.

Previously a district judge had blocked the law in districts such as Austin ISD and Lake Travis ISD. With that block lifted, schools are expected to comply with the state rule promptly.

The ruling was welcomed by Texas officials. Governor‑elect Ken Paxton called it a “major victory” and said the Commandments teach important lessons. Opponents argue the law violates the First Amendment’s separation of church and state, insisting families should decide whether to give religious instruction. Supporters claim the Commandments reflect historical influence rather than a push for religion, and that the Constitution does not force the state to erase history.

Legal experts note that courts are still debating how to interpret religious freedom in cases like this. Some remaining lawsuits against the law may be dismissed if they mirror the facts in this ruling, while others could reach the Fifth Circuit again. Families plan to ask the Supreme Court for a reversal, but in the meantime, many classrooms will see the Ten Commandments posted.