Texas, Alabama Push Ten Commandments in Schools

Controversial bills in Alabama and Texas are pushing for the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools, sparking debates over church-state separation. Alabama's Senate Bill 166 mandates schools and colleges to display the Ten Commandments, citing their historical importance, while Texas bills SB 10 and SB 11 aim to display the commandments in classrooms and allow designated prayer times. Proponents argue these measures restore historical traditions and moral clarity, with Texas legislators asserting these moves could reverse perceived moral decline since prayer was removed from schools. Critics, however, view these bills as violations of the constitutional separation of church and state, referencing ongoing legal battles like the civil rights lawsuit in Louisiana. The bills in Texas have passed out of committee and are heading for Senate consideration, reflecting broader efforts by conservative Christians to integrate religious elements into public education. Both states' legislative actions are part of a larger trend of conservative pushes to infuse religious practices into public life and education.