Fact Check: Texas Becomes Largest State to Impose Ten Commandments in Schools
What We Know
In March 2025, the Texas legislature passed Senate Bill 10, which mandates the display of the Ten Commandments in every public school classroom starting in the 2025-2026 school year. This bill was sponsored by Senator Phil King and received significant support, passing the Senate with a vote of 28-3 and the House with a vote of 82-46 after extensive debate (Texas Tribune, Politico). Lt. Governor Dan Patrick stated that the law aims to provide students with a foundational moral compass, reflecting the values of the state's forefathers (Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick Statement).
Analysis
The claim that Texas is the largest state to impose the Ten Commandments in schools is substantiated by the recent passage of Senate Bill 10, which is indeed the first law of its kind to be enacted in Texas and makes it the largest state to do so. The law requires that the Ten Commandments be displayed in a specific format, with posters measuring at least 16 by 20 inches, and prohibits the inclusion of any other text or similar posters (Texas Tribune, Politico).
Critics of the bill argue that it violates the principle of separation of church and state, citing a recent federal court ruling that struck down a similar law in Louisiana (Texas Tribune). Legal experts have pointed out that while the current Supreme Court may be more favorable to religious expressions in public spaces, the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms could still face significant legal challenges (Texas Tribune).
The sources used in this analysis are reliable, with the Texas Tribune being a well-respected news organization known for its in-depth reporting on Texas politics. The official statement from Lt. Governor Dan Patrick also provides direct insight into the legislative intent behind the bill.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that Texas has become the largest state to impose the Ten Commandments in schools is accurate. The passage of Senate Bill 10 marks a significant legislative move, making Texas the first state of its size to require the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. Despite ongoing legal and ethical debates surrounding the law, the implementation is set to begin in the 2025-2026 school year.
