abcnews.go.com
Louisiana Ten Commandments Law Blocked
A Louisiana law requiring the Ten Commandments to be displayed in public schools was temporarily blocked by a federal judge who deemed it unconstitutional.
English
United States
Human Rights ViolationsUs PoliticsEducationLawReligionCourtConstitutionality
Louisiana LegislatureRepublicanparty
John W. DegravellesElizabeth MurrillJeff Landry
- What is the history of similar legislation in other states?
- Similar attempts to incorporate religion into classrooms have occurred in other states, but legal challenges and the 1980 Supreme Court ruling against a Kentucky law have prevented their implementation.
- What arguments did opponents of the law use in their lawsuit?
- Opponents of the law, including a group of parents, argued that the mandatory display would isolate students, particularly those who are not Christian, and create unconstitutional religious coercion.
- What was the main argument used by the judge to justify the ruling?
- The judge argued that the law's overtly religious purpose violates the First Amendment's establishment clause, rejecting the state's claim of historical significance.
- How did Louisiana's Attorney General and Governor respond to the court decision?
- Louisiana Attorney General Elizabeth Murrill and Governor Jeff Landry disagree with the court's decision and plan to appeal, while supporters claim the measure has historical significance beyond religious implications.
- What was the ruling of the federal judge in Louisiana regarding the new state law?
- A federal judge in Louisiana temporarily blocked a new state law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms, citing its unconstitutionality.