San Antonio, Texas, September 5, 2025
News Summary
A new Texas law requires public schools to display the Ten Commandments in classrooms, obligating compliance across the state. This controversial law, signed by Governor Abbott, aims to promote student morality but raises significant First Amendment concerns. While certain districts are moving forward with compliance, others are hesitant due to ongoing litigation and funding issues. The law’s implementation has prompted legal challenges from families arguing that it infringes on their rights by imposing religious material in secular education.
San Antonio, Texas — A new Texas law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms is now in effect as of September 1, 2025. The law requires each displayed poster to measure at least 16 by 20 inches, obligating schools across the state to comply. This law, passed by Governor Greg Abbott in June, aims to foster good behavior among students, although it has sparked substantial controversy over potential First Amendment violations.
The South San Independent School District (ISD) has chosen to take proactive measures by purchasing posters for its 500 classrooms spread across 12 schools, as noted by Superintendent Saul Hinojosa. This district is among the few that are moving forward with compliance after a federal judge issued a ruling in favor of families challenging the legality of the law. This ruling pertains to a lawsuit involving 11 school districts, which has sparked a discussion over the implications of such religious displays within public education settings.
Despite the ruling, the injunction only affects the specific districts involved in the lawsuit, meaning entities like South San ISD remain required to adhere to the new law. The lawsuit includes 16 families from various religious backgrounds who argue that the law infringes upon their constitutional rights by enforcing religious content in secular education environments. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas is representing these families in ongoing litigation.
Some districts, such as Edgewood ISD, have opted not to purchase or display the Ten Commandments posters, primarily due to a lack of funding or donations for such materials. On the other hand, Northside ISD, the largest district in San Antonio, has paused its plans to print the posters amid anticipation of potential legal challenges. This indecision highlights the uncertainty surrounding enforcement of the law and the consequences for non-compliance. Attorney General Ken Paxton has not clarified the penalties for districts failing to comply with the new requirements.
The situation raises significant First Amendment concerns, as federal judge Fred Biery has cautioned that the law could inadvertently compel students to adopt a version of Christianity defined by the state. In contrast, supporters of the law claim that it serves as a reflection of America’s moral heritage and legal foundations.
The unfolding developments surrounding the law and the intertwined legal disputes are expected to ignite a larger debate concerning the presence of religious displays in public schools and the balance between heritage and constitutional rights.
Background Context
In June 2025, Governor Greg Abbott signed the law into effect, claiming that it promotes kindness and morality among students. The measure requires public schools across the state to display the Ten Commandments, which proponents argue is an essential aspect of American history and moral teaching. The legislation’s controversial nature stems from the argument that it imposes religious elements within a public education system that should remain secular.
The debate continues as various school districts maneuver through compliance and examine the potential ramifications of this law. The outcomes of the ongoing litigation may very well set precedents for the future of religious displays in public education across the nation.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new Texas law regarding the Ten Commandments?
The new law mandates that public schools in Texas display the Ten Commandments in each classroom, with posters measuring at least 16 by 20 inches.
When did the law go into effect?
The law took effect on September 1, 2025.
Who passed the law?
The law was signed by Governor Greg Abbott in June 2025.
What are the arguments against the law?
Critics argue that the law violates the First Amendment by enforcing religious displays in public schools, which should be secular.
What is the current status of the ongoing lawsuit?
A federal judge ruled in favor of families challenging the law, but the injunction only applies to the specific school districts involved in the case, leaving others, like South San ISD, obligated to comply.
What is the ACLU’s role in this issue?
The ACLU of Texas is representing the families who are suing the state over this law, asserting that it is unconstitutional.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Law Implementation Date | September 1, 2025 |
| Poster Size | At least 16 by 20 inches |
| Proponent | Governor Greg Abbott |
| Litigation Involved | 16 families from diverse religious backgrounds |
| Legal Representation | American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Texas |
| Compliant District Example | South San ISD |
| Non-Compliant District Example | Edgewood ISD |
| Speculated Penalties | Currently unclear under the law |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- WOAI: Paxton: Ten Commandments to be displayed in schools despite injunction
- KENS 5: 10 Commandments law in Texas schools lawsuit
- KSAT: Ten Commandments posters on display across Texas public school classrooms
- Google Search: Ten Commandments Texas schools
- Wikipedia: First Amendment to the United States Constitution
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
