Controversy Continues: Louisiana Law Mandates Ten Commandments Display Despite Legal Challenges

SHREVEPORT, LA – The fight over the Ten Commandments in Louisiana classrooms is far from over. A new law goes into effect January 1 requiring schools to display the Commandments in all classrooms. This new law moves forward even though Federal Judge John DeGravelles blocked the law on constitutional grounds calling the law "unconstitutional on its face." The ruling does not apply statewide, yet.

Judge John W. deGravelles says the law has an "overtly religious" purpose. He did not agree with the state’s claims that the Ten Commandments hold historical significance to the foundation of U.S. law.

The Judge’s opinion also says no other documents — including the Constitution or the Bill of Rights — must be posted.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says while Judge John DeGravelles blocked the law on constitutional grounds, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals limited the scope of his ruling,

There were only five school boards that were sued and so there’s only five school boards that are subject to this injunction.

This means all other school districts will be required to post the commandments unless there is another ruling on the topic statewide.

Murrill said the school board not named in the lawsuit should have nothing to worry about when it comes to posting the Ten Commandments.

Only the people who are sued are subject to the jurisdiction of the federal court. This is a federal lawsuit.

What School Districts Were Sued in this Case?

The parish public school districts named as defendants in the case are East Baton Rouge, Livingston, Orleans, St. Tammany and Vernon

Murrill said the state is ready to defend any school board that gets sued over the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms.

“They can’t be hauled into court and brought before Judge  DeGravelles and have him say “you violated my order”. Their answer would be I’m not subject to your order.”