Texas Gov. Abbott Halts Muslim EPIC City Amid Multiple Investigations

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has halted all construction on the planned EPIC City, a Muslim-themed community backed by the East Plano Islamic Center (EPIC), citing multiple investigations including criminal probes and a Department of Justice inquiry. The development, intended to include over 1,000 homes, a mosque, a faith-based K-12 school, a community college, and various community facilities, faces allegations of potentially violating state laws and concerns about religious discrimination and the imposition of Sharia law, which EPIC denies. Despite EPIC officials stating that construction has not yet begun and that they are cooperating with investigations, state leaders including Attorney General Ken Paxton and Senator John Cornyn have expressed strong opposition, with Cornyn requesting federal investigation into potential violations of constitutional religious freedoms. Critics worry the community could exclude non-Muslims and enforce religious laws, while EPIC maintains it will adhere to all state and federal regulations and promote an inclusive environment. The controversy has prompted legislative considerations in Texas aimed at restricting such developments and preventing foreign adversaries from land acquisition. Abbott's administration emphasizes the seriousness of the concerns and continues to pursue investigations into the project.