Full Breakdown
Texas Board Mandates Bible Reading in Public Schools; Florida Weighs Similar Move
7/2/2026, 11:38:12 PM
Texas Board Approves Mandatory Bible Reading
On June 26, the Republican-controlled Texas State Board of Education voted to add Bible passages—including New Testament excerpts and the story of Jonah—to the state’s mandatory reading list for public-school students. The list, which also contains works such as Charles Dickens’s *Great Expectations*, will apply to elementary, middle and high school curricula beginning in the 2030-2031 school year.
Background & Context
Texas’s move follows earlier state actions that placed the Ten Commandments in classrooms and, in 2023, authorized public-school chaplains. Florida has repeatedly mirrored Texas policies, adopting a comparable chaplain program in 2024 and promoting broader religious-expression measures in schools.
Timeline
- 2023: Texas authorizes school chaplains; Florida follows.
- June 26 2024: Texas Board adopts mandatory Bible reading list.
- 2030-2031: List takes effect statewide.
Data & Statistics
Texas serves roughly 5 million public-school students—about one-in-ten nationwide—and the new list pairs Biblical passages with standard literature.
Official Statements & Responses
The Florida Department of Education said it does not oppose Bible use in classrooms, noting that understanding the Founding Fathers’ ideals requires familiarity with “great books,” including the Bible. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier affirmed schools must accommodate parents seeking religious instruction. The Texas Freedom Network warned the policy elevates a single Christian text.
Criticism & Opposition
Teachers, parents and community members argue the mandate blurs the constitutional separation of church and state and removes teachers’ discretion, contending that compulsory Biblical study may alienate non-Christian families.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It would be nearly impossible for students to have a complete understanding of the Founding Fathers without being familiar with the great books and writings that inspired many of their principles and ideals — and that includes the Bible,” — Cassie Edwards, Spokesperson, Florida Department of Education
- “But this is sending the message to children that one and only one religious text — a Christian one — is worthy of making this required reading list.” — Elva Mendoza, Legislative Communications Associate, Texas Freedom Network
- “America should celebrate our 250 years that started as a nation of unwavering Christian values,” — Brooke Mazel, Retiree, Lubbock
- “The LORD—author of our natural rights and duties—requires nothing less,” — James Uthmeier, Florida Attorney General
What’s Next
Florida has not announced a timetable for a similar reading list, but the department’s neutral stance suggests the issue could reappear in upcoming legislative sessions. Texas’s policy will be in effect in 2030-2031.
