A federal judge in Louisiana has temporarily blocked a new law requiring the display of the Ten Commandments in every public classroom, stating that it is unconstitutional. The judge’s ruling came after opponents argued that the law violates the First Amendment’s provisions on religion.
U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles rejected state officials’ claims that the Ten Commandments have historical significance to U.S. law, noting that no other foundational documents are mandated to be displayed in classrooms. The lawsuit against the law, filed by a group of parents, argues that the display would isolate non-Christian students.
The law, passed by Louisiana’s GOP-dominated Legislature, has received support from Republicans, including President-elect Donald Trump. Similar bills have been proposed in other states, but legal battles have prevented them from going into effect.
The legislation requires the Ten Commandments to be displayed in all public K-12 schools and state-funded university classrooms on posters or framed documents. Each display must be accompanied by a statement describing the historical significance of the Commandments in American public education.
Proponents of the law say that schools are not required to use public funding for the posters, as donations or contributions from organizations can cover the cost. The ruling by the federal judge suggests that opponents are likely to succeed in their legal challenge against the law.
This decision highlights the ongoing debate over the separation of church and state in the education system, with conflicting views on the role of religion in public schools.
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