Bill > HB764

This bill requires all public schools and charter schools in Mississippi to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom by January 1, 2026, with specific implementation guidelines. The bill mandates that the Ten Commandments be displayed on a poster or framed document at least 11 by 14 inches in size, with the text printed in a large, easily readable font. The bill includes the full text of the Ten Commandments and requires a context statement explaining the historical significance of the Ten Commandments in American public education, referencing its presence in early textbooks like the New England Primer and McGuffey Readers. Schools are encouraged to use free resources and can accept donated displays or funds to purchase them. The bill also allows schools to optionally display additional historical documents like the Mayflower Compact, Declaration of Independence, and Northwest Ordinance. The legislation is supported by references to Supreme Court cases that have previously recognized the historical significance of the Ten Commandments, and the State Board of Education is required to adopt rules to ensure proper implementation. The bill cites historical references from founding fathers and early American educational practices to justify the display, emphasizing the Ten Commandments as part of America's cultural and historical heritage. The requirement will apply to both traditional public schools and charter schools, with implementation set to begin on July 1, 2025.

Education

https://billstatus.ls.state.ms.us/2025/pdf/history/HB/HB0764.xml