Indianapolis, January 30, 2026
Indiana lawmakers have moved forward with House Bill 1086, allowing public schools to display the Ten Commandments optionally in classrooms and libraries. While the display is not mandatory, school districts can choose to participate. Importantly, teachers are forbidden from reading the text aloud to students, although libraries must keep a copy. This bill reflects ongoing debates regarding religious texts in educational settings and is expected to face further scrutiny as it progresses.
Indianapolis, Indiana – Indiana Lawmakers Advance Bill on Ten Commandments in Schools
Indiana lawmakers have advanced a bill that permits, but does not mandate, the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms and libraries. The legislation, known as House Bill 1086, was approved by the House Education Committee along party lines on January 27, 2026. Under the bill, school districts have the option to allow the display of the Ten Commandments, but teachers are prohibited from reading it aloud to students. Additionally, school libraries would be required to keep a copy of the Ten Commandments, and students would be permitted to reference the text in their work without penalty.
Key Provisions of House Bill 1086
- Optional Display: School districts may choose to permit the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms and libraries.
- Prohibition on Reading Aloud: Teachers and principals are not allowed to read the Ten Commandments aloud when students are present.
- Library Requirement: School libraries must maintain a copy of the Ten Commandments.
- Student Reference: Students are allowed to cite the Ten Commandments in their academic work without facing consequences.
Background and Legislative Process
Initially, House Bill 1086 required the mandatory display of the Ten Commandments in all public school classrooms and libraries. However, following amendments, the bill now allows for optional displays. The legislation has progressed through the House Education Committee and is expected to move to the full House for further consideration. If passed, the bill would become effective in the 2026-2027 school year.
Context of Similar Legislation
Indiana’s proposed legislation aligns with similar efforts in other states. For instance, Texas enacted Senate Bill 10 in 2025, mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. However, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction in August 2025, blocking the enforcement of the law in certain school districts. Additionally, Louisiana’s House Bill 71 was ruled unconstitutional in November 2024, with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit affirming the decision in June 2025. These developments highlight the ongoing legal and constitutional debates surrounding the display of religious texts in public schools.
Implications and Next Steps
The advancement of House Bill 1086 in Indiana reflects a broader national conversation about the role of religious symbols and texts in public education. As the bill progresses, it is anticipated that further legal challenges may arise, particularly concerning the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. Stakeholders, including educators, parents, and legal experts, are closely monitoring the situation to assess the potential impact on educational environments and constitutional rights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is House Bill 1086?
House Bill 1086 is a proposed Indiana law that allows school districts to permit the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms and libraries, without mandating it. The bill also prohibits teachers and principals from reading the Ten Commandments aloud to students and requires school libraries to keep a copy of the text.
Has House Bill 1086 been passed into law?
As of January 30, 2026, House Bill 1086 has been approved by the House Education Committee and is expected to move to the full House for further consideration. If passed, the bill would become effective in the 2026-2027 school year.
How does House Bill 1086 compare to similar legislation in other states?
Similar legislation has been introduced in other states, such as Texas and Louisiana. Texas enacted Senate Bill 10 in 2025, mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in public school classrooms. However, a federal judge issued a temporary injunction in August 2025, blocking the enforcement of the law in certain school districts. Louisiana’s House Bill 71 was ruled unconstitutional in November 2024, with the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit affirming the decision in June 2025. These developments highlight the ongoing legal and constitutional debates surrounding the display of religious texts in public schools.
What are the potential implications of House Bill 1086?
The advancement of House Bill 1086 reflects a broader national conversation about the role of religious symbols and texts in public education. As the bill progresses, it is anticipated that further legal challenges may arise, particularly concerning the Establishment Clause of the First Amendment. Stakeholders, including educators, parents, and legal experts, are closely monitoring the situation to assess the potential impact on educational environments and constitutional rights.
Key Features of House Bill 1086
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Optional Display | School districts may choose to permit the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms and libraries. |
| Prohibition on Reading Aloud | Teachers and principals are prohibited from reading the Ten Commandments aloud when students are present. |
| Library Requirement | School libraries must maintain a copy of the Ten Commandments. |
| Student Reference | Students are allowed to cite the Ten Commandments in their academic work without facing consequences. |
| Legislative Status | Approved by the House Education Committee; expected to move to the full House for further consideration. |
| Effective Date | If passed, the bill would become effective in the 2026-2027 school year. |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
