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Fifth Circuit to Review Controversial Ten Commandments Laws

11/7/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will hear challenges to Texas and Louisiana's Ten Commandments display laws in public schools in January 2026, reviewing both cases together and noting Louisiana's injunction.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton argues the law reflects America's moral heritage.
Opponents including the American Civil Liberties Union contend the law violates the First Amendment.

History

Historical Context

The 1980 Supreme Court case Stone v. Graham ruled that a Kentucky law requiring the Ten Commandments' display in public schools violated the Establishment Clause, as it lacked a secular purpose. This landmark decision sparked ongoing debates about religious expression in public institutions, with organizations like the ACLU challenging similar laws, reflecting a persistent struggle over the separation of church and state in American education.

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Story summary

The U.S. Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals will hear challenges to Texas and Louisiana's Ten Commandments display laws in public schools in January 2026, reviewing both cases together and noting Louisiana's injunction.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton argues the law reflects America's moral heritage.
Opponents including the American Civil Liberties Union contend the law violates the First Amendment.

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