Controversy over Louisiana's Ten Commandments law

SOURCE www.nbcnews.com
Louisiana Governor defends controversial legislation requiring public schools to display Ten Commandments despite lawsuit claiming it interferes with First Amendment rights.

Key Points

  • Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry defended the law as an example of majority rule.
  • The law requires all public K-12 schools and colleges in Louisiana to display the Ten Commandments by January.
  • The families' lawsuit prompted the state to agree not to promote or enforce the law until at least Nov. 15.
  • Attorney General Liz Murrill stated that no public funds will be required for printing the posters and they can be supplied through private donations.

Pros

  • Supporters view it as an opportunity for powerful teaching moments in classrooms.
  • The law passed with bipartisan support in Louisiana's state Legislature.

Cons

  • Critics argue that it infringes on parents' First Amendment rights to raise their children with the religious doctrine of their choice.
  • The legislation is facing a lawsuit in federal court.