Appeals Court Clears Way for Louisiana Ten Commandments Law

Ruling says law can take effect despite concerns over constitutionality

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A U.S. appeals court has cleared the way for a Louisiana law requiring poster-sized displays of the Ten Commandments in public classrooms to take effect. The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals voted 12-6 to lift a block that a lower court first placed on the law in 2024, saying it was too early to make a judgment call on the constitutionality of the law.

Why it matters

This ruling is part of a broader push by Republicans, including former President Donald Trump, to incorporate religion into public school classrooms. Critics argue these laws violate the separation of church and state, while supporters say the Ten Commandments are historical and part of the foundation of U.S. law.

The details

The appeals court said it was unclear how prominently schools would display the religious text, if teachers would refer to the Ten Commandments during classes, or if other historical documents would also be displayed. Without those details, the court decided it didn't have enough information to weigh any First Amendment issues that might arise from the law.

  • The 5th Circuit Court of Appeals voted on the case in February 2026.
  • A lower court first blocked the Louisiana law in 2024.

The players

5th Circuit Court of Appeals

The U.S. appeals court that ruled to lift the block on the Louisiana law requiring Ten Commandments displays in classrooms.

Donald Trump

The former U.S. president who was part of a broader push by Republicans to incorporate religion into public school classrooms.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The law 'is precisely the kind of establishment the Framers anticipated and sought to prevent.'”

— James L. Dennis, Circuit Judge (castanet.net)

What’s next

The case may continue to be challenged in court, as the six dissenting judges argued the law presents a clear constitutional burden.

The takeaway

This ruling highlights the ongoing debate over the separation of church and state in public schools, with supporters arguing the Ten Commandments are historical while critics say the displays violate the Constitution.