Paxton Issues Guidance on New Law Allowing Prayer, Bible Reading in Texas Schools

Paxton Issues Guidance on New Law Allowing Prayer, Bible Reading in Texas Schools

AUSTIN, Texas — Attorney General Ken Paxton is urging school districts to implement classroom prayer and Bible reading following the enactment of a new state law that took effect Sept. 1.

Senate Bill 11, authored by Sen. Mayes Middleton, R-Galveston, requires school boards to take a record vote on adopting policies that set aside time for prayer and the reading of the Bible or other religious texts in classrooms.

“In Texas classrooms, we want the Word of God opened, the Ten Commandments displayed, and prayers lifted up,” Paxton said in a statement. 

“Twisted, radical liberals want to erase Truth, dismantle the solid foundation that America’s success and strength were built upon, and erode the moral fabric of our society. Our nation was founded on the rock of Biblical Truth, and I will not stand by while the far-left attempts to push our country into the sinking sand.”

Paxton encouraged students to consider beginning with the Lord’s Prayer during the allotted time.

Under the law, the attorney general is responsible for defending school districts or charter schools that adopt the practice if legal challenges arise. The office is also tasked with providing best practice recommendations for implementation.

Student participation will require parental consent, and the period for prayer or scripture reading cannot replace or interfere with instructional time.

A related measure, Senate Bill 965 by Sen. Tan Parker, R-Flower Mound, also took effect Sept. 1. That law ensures public and charter school employees may engage in religious speech or prayer while on duty.

Gov. Greg Abbott signed both bills on June 20.



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